Dust mite allergen-specific immune response

The dust mite allergen-specific immune response refers to the complex immunological processes triggered by exposure to proteins and other components derived from house dust mites (HDM), such as *Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus* and *Dermatophagoides farinae*. These allergens are a major cause of allergic diseases, including atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. The response involves both innate and adaptive immune mechanisms, with key features including epithelial barrier disruption, activation of pattern recognition receptors, release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, differentiation of Th2 effector cells, production of allergen-specific IgE antibodies, and mast cell degranulation upon re-exposure.

Allergen-specific immunotherapy aims to shift the balance toward regulatory T-cell responses rather than pathogenic Th2 responses. Regulatory T-cells suppress effector functions through cytokines like IL‑10 or TGF‑β. Successful therapy reduces specific IgE levels while increasing blocking antibodies like IgG4; it also limits recruitment/activation of eosinophils/basophils/mast cells at sites of exposure