A groundbreaking clinical trial published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology this May has revealed a potential long-term solution for peanut allergy sufferers. Researchers from Stanford University have developed an oral immunotherapy (OIT) protocol that combines gradual peanut protein exposure with a novel immune-modulating drug, achieving sustained unresponsiveness in 78% of participants after three years. Unlike previous treatments that required daily dosing to maintain tolerance, this new approach appears to reprogram the immune system permanently in the majority of cases.
The study followed 150 children aged 5–17 with severe peanut allergies, randomly assigned to either the experimental treatment or a placebo group. Those receiving the active treatment started with microscopic doses of peanut protein alongside a biologic drug targeting regulatory T-cells, which help suppress allergic responses. Over six months, doses were incrementally increased under medical supervision. After three years, 78% of treated participants could safely consume the equivalent of 10 peanuts without reaction, compared to just 4% in the placebo group.
Dr. Elena Rodriguez, lead author of the study, explained that the key innovation was the addition of the immune modulator, which appears to “reset” the immune system’s overreaction to peanut proteins. “Previous OIT approaches often lost effectiveness if treatment was interrupted. Our data suggests this combination therapy may provide durable protection,” she stated. The treatment did carry risks—15% of participants experienced moderate allergic reactions during dose escalation, though none were life-threatening.
If approved by regulators, this therapy could transform peanut allergy management, offering an alternative to strict avoidance and emergency epinephrine use. The research team is now investigating whether similar approaches could work for other food allergies, with early-stage trials underway for egg and tree nut allergies.
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