Food allergy affects 3-9 % of young children. Severe food allergy may persist into adulthood increasing the risk of anaphylaxis and reducing the quality of life. Oral immunotherapy (OIT) can desensitize up to 80% of children with food allergy, and in a subset lead to sustained immune tolerance. The immunologic mechanisms induced by OIT are not well understood. In this randomized cross-over trial, we determine how a 6 months OIT program with hen's egg effects cellular and humoral responses in 50 allergic children. We investigate binding of IgEs, function and gene expression of blood cells during OIT, and the formation of tolerance by focusing on regulatory T cells (Tregs). Finally, obtained data and transcriptomics are combined and analyzed by advanced system biology methods. This study will provide better understanding of the effects and mechanisms of OIT. The study will identify biomarkers for diagnosis and selection of patients benefitting from personalized OIT.

2021

2025