London, UK – April 24, 2025 — In a groundbreaking clinical trial, researchers have demonstrated that daily, supervised peanut doses can help desensitize adults with severe peanut allergies — potentially transforming treatment for a condition previously managed only through strict avoidance.
The Grown Up Peanut Immunotherapy (GUPI) trial, led by King’s College London and Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, marks the first study of its kind to focus exclusively on adults. Published today in the journal Allergy, the Phase II trial offers new hope to those living with the constant threat of life-threatening allergic reactions.
The trial involved 21 adults aged 18 to 40 with clinically diagnosed peanut allergies, confirmed through skin prick tests, blood tests, and oral food challenges. Participants initially received small doses of peanut flour in a clinical setting. Those who tolerated early doses continued the regimen at home, gradually building up to the equivalent of four whole peanuts.
Following a rigorous protocol of incremental dosing and monitoring, participants who reached a threshold of 1 gram of peanut protein maintained this daily dose for at least four weeks. They then underwent a double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge to assess tolerance levels. The study found that two-thirds of participants (67%) could consume at least 1.4 grams of peanut protein — roughly five peanuts — without experiencing an allergic reaction.
Professor Stephen Till, Chief Investigator and Professor of Allergy at King’s College London, said the findings align with those seen in pediatric trials. “The results are very encouraging. We now have early evidence that oral immunotherapy can benefit adults and improve their quality of life. This could significantly reduce the fear and danger associated with accidental exposure.”
Oral immunotherapy has already shown success in children, but its effectiveness in adults remained uncertain until now. Participants in the GUPI trial not only experienced increased peanut tolerance but also reported substantial improvements in their day-to-day lives.
Hannah Hunter, lead author and specialist Allergy Dietitian at Guy’s and St Thomas’, emphasized the psychological toll peanut allergies can take. “Living with peanut allergy requires constant vigilance. Our participants reported reduced anxiety around eating out, traveling, and social interactions. Many described the treatment as life-changing.”
One of those participants is Chris, 28, who has had a peanut allergy since infancy. “I’m proud to say I used to be allergic to peanuts. This trial changed everything,” he said. “Before, a simple mistake could have had life-threatening consequences. Now, I eat four peanuts every morning. I no longer live in fear.”
The trial was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) through its Research for Patient Benefit Programme. The research team is now looking to expand the study to a larger cohort and investigate whether the benefits can be sustained long-term.
Professor Till added, “Our next goal is to identify which adult patients are most likely to benefit and whether oral immunotherapy can lead to permanent tolerance. This study lays the groundwork for a future where food allergies can be managed, and perhaps one day, even cured.”
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