New and Experimental Treatments for Mast Cell Disease and Allergy

Nanoparticles Targeting Mast Cells Prevent Allergic Reactions in Mice
Researchers at Northwestern University successfully used a new treatment to prevent anaphylaxis in allergic mice using nanoparticles that targeted the mice' mast cells.  These nanoparticles were coated with molecules meant to function as allergens, and another molecule- called Siglec-6 that- that signals mast cells not to react.  The result was that the targeted mast cells were deactivated, which protected the mice and kept them from experiencing anaphylaxis.  "In one final experiment, mice sensitized to an IgE allergen were given the nanoparticle infusions with the two antibodies, and exposed to their allergen. None experienced signs of an allergic reaction."