Scientists have taken a significant step towards solving the problem that affects millions of people worldwide who wish to enjoy the companionship of pets. Allergy to cats impacts about 15% of the US population, leading to symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, eye irritation, and even asthma attacks. Each year, hundreds of thousands of emergency medical cases are attributed to this condition, with the primary culprit being the Fel D 1 protein present in all members of the feline family, regardless of breed or age.
Fel D 1 is produced in the sebaceous, salivary, perinatal, and lacrimal glands of cats, with traces of the protein remaining on their fur and triggering allergic reactions. The varying levels of Fel D 1 production among individuals determine their allergenicity, although no cats have been found to be completely devoid of this protein.
A recent study has provided insights into the nature and evolution of Fel D 1. By examining protein sequences in 276 domestic and exotic cat species across millions of years, scientists discovered high variability in the structure of the protein and the CH1 and CH2 genes responsible for its synthesis. Natural mutations disrupting Fel D 1 function were observed in certain species, indicating that this protein may not be essential for cat health.
The findings raise hopes for the development of hypoallergenic pets. If it is established that cats can thrive without Fel D 1, gene-editing technologies like CRISPR could be used to deactivate the genes responsible for its production. Initial experiments with CRISPR have successfully altered the CH2 gene, with the next challenge being the complete inactivation of both genes without compromising the cats’ health or behavior.
The study has unraveled more than a hundred unique mutations in the FEL D 1 protein structure, highlighting its complexity and diversity across species. While its precise functions remain a mystery, there are speculations that FEL D 1 might contribute to immune defense, epithelial protection, or chemical communication among cats.
If these research efforts prove fruitful, millions of individuals could finally own the pets they have always desired without concerns about their health. However, extensive work lies