Allergies to peanuts are not rare. However, if relief in the form of
an injection of epinephrine is not readily available, reactions can be
so severe that death can result.
Furthermore, the problem is compounded by the large number of prepared
foods and meals that contain peanuts or peanut oil as an ingredient.
The latest research in this field
raises hope of a vaccine. It involves the oral administration of a
gene that encodes Arah2, the peanut antigen that is responsible for
inducing life-threatening symptoms to mice. Mice responded to the DNA
vaccine by producing antibodies to Arah2, and they showed less severe
symptoms in response to peanuts.

Reference: Roy, K., Mao, H.-Q., Huang, S.-K. et al. 1999. Oral gene
delivery with chitosan-DNA nanoparticles generates immunologic
protection in a murine model of peanut allergy. Nature Med.
5(4):387-391.

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[log in to unmask] (Liza May)