June 9, 2011

Streamlined Cat Allergy Vaccine on the Horizon -- Short and Sweet

It's not news that many cat lovers are allergic to the object of their affection and are also allergic to pollen and dust. LA Times explains why:

Most people who sneeze around cats are allergic to one particular protein, Fel d 1. Ragweed pollen also has one main allergy-causing protein, called Amb a 1, which breaks down sugars. Dust mites, by contrast, have a dozen or more proteins that can cause trouble.
Scientists think cats might use Fel d 1 as a pheromone to attract mates. It's sticky stuff that attaches to the cat's dander, which then floats in the air and gets, well, everywhere.

The problem doesn't affect just those who live with a feline. People who regularly visit other people's homes, such as police officers, can't avoid it. The dander sticks to cat owners and infiltrates offices and other public places.

In addition, cat allergy seems to be a sort of "gateway" allergy. Kids bothered by cats often go on to develop asthma or even more allergies.

Current allergy therapy requires injections as frequently as three times a week for up to seven months, with continued monthly shots for five years or more. These allergy shots are expensive, not always safe and tediously slow.

Mark Larché, an immunologist at McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada, is developing a vaccine to target cat allergy, which afflicts around 10% of the U.S. population and one for ragweed as well. Instead of months and years of regular shots, he plans a four-month schedule of one shot a month with a booster perhaps if needed. In the meantime, allergy medicine will have to suffice.