Der f

Der f (Dermatophagoides farinae) is a biological allergen extract derived from the American house dust mite. In the context of clinical research at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, it is utilized as an inhaled challenge agent to identify asthmatic individuals who exhibit a late-phase asthmatic response (LPAR). The mechanism of action involves the cross-linking of allergen-specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies bound to high-affinity receptors (FcεRI) on the surface of mast cells and basophils. This cross-linking triggers the degranulation of these cells, releasing potent inflammatory mediators such as histamine, leukotrienes, and cytokines. These mediators cause acute bronchoconstriction (the early-phase response) and subsequent airway inflammation and remodeling (the late-phase response). This screening process is essential for phenotyping subjects for inclusion in studies evaluating novel asthma therapeutics.

Other names

Dermatophagoides farinaeAmerican house dust mite allergen extractDer f-University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill