House dust mite allergen proteins (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Dermatophagoides farinae) (HDM allergens)

House dust mite (HDM) allergen proteins from Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Dermatophagoides farinae are the primary drivers of indoor allergic sensitization worldwide [1]. These proteins, particularly the Group 1 (cysteine proteases) and Group 2 (NPC2 family lipid-binding proteins) allergens, trigger Type I hypersensitivity reactions by cross-linking IgE on mast cells and basophils [2]. In addition to their allergenic properties, many HDM proteins possess enzymatic activity that can disrupt epithelial barriers, further promoting inflammation and facilitating allergen entry into the subepithelial space [3]. They are the central targets for allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), which aims to desensitize the immune system and induce long-term tolerance by shifting the immune response from a Th2 to a Th1/Treg profile [4]. Therapeutic products typically consist of standardized extracts containing a mixture of these proteins to treat allergic rhinitis and house dust mite-induced asthma [5]. [1] Thomas, W. R. (2015). Geography of house dust mite allergens. World Allergy Organization Journal. [2] WHO/IUIS Allergen Nomenclature Sub-Committee (allergen.org). [3] Jacquet, A. (2013). The role of innate immunity in house dust mite allergy. ISRN Allergy. [4] Moingeon, P. (2013). Update on immune mechanisms associated with allergen-specific immunotherapy. Allergy. [5] FDA Label for Odactra (2017).

Other names

HDM allergensDer p allergensDer f allergensMite allergensDermatophagoides allergensHouse dust mite allergen extract

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) involves the repeated administration of specific allergens to induce immunological tolerance, characterized by a shift from a Th2-mediated allergic response to a Th1 and regulatory T cell (Treg) response, and the production of blocking antibodies such as IgG4 [4].