Allergies are abnormal reactions of the immune system that develop as a result of the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Recent research has revealed that certain genes are involved in the onset and severity of allergic diseases. Utilizing genetic information will enable individually optimized allergy management , which is expected to reduce symptoms and the risk of onset.
This article takes a closer look at the relationship between allergies and genetics, the main allergy-related genes, and how to manage them using genetic testing.
1. The relationship between allergies and genetics
There are various types of allergic diseases, including hay fever, asthma, atopic dermatitis, food allergies, etc. These diseases develop when the immune system overreacts to certain substances (allergens) .
(1) How much influence does genetics have?
One study showing the relationship between genes and allergies is a twin study . When comparing the incidence of allergies between genetically identical identical twins and fraternal twins who share 50% of their genes, it was reported that the incidence of allergies was higher in identical twins (Ober & Yao, 2011).
In addition, if one parent has an allergy, the risk of the child developing an allergy is approximately doubled, and if both parents have allergies, the risk is even higher.
(2) Major allergy-related genes
Advances in genetic analysis have identified several genes involved in the development of allergies. In particular, genes such as IL-4R, FLG, and HLA-DQ are known to be strongly associated with allergy risk.
IL-4R (Interleukin 4 receptor gene) : Increases the risk of bronchial asthma and hay fever
FLG (filaggrin gene) : Involved in skin barrier function and associated with the onset of atopic dermatitis
HLA-DQ (human leukocyte antigen genes) : Involved in the risk of food allergies
By analyzing these genes, it is possible to grasp an individual’s allergy risk in advance and take appropriate preventive measures .
Genetic testing analyzes polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes related to allergies to assess individual risks. For example, the following information can be obtained:
Gene
Related Allergies
Impact of risk
Recommended Management Practices
IL-13
Bronchial asthma
High-risk types have higher asthma incidence
Improvement of indoor environment, use of inhaled steroids
FLG
Atopic dermatitis
Decreased skin barrier function
Thorough moisturizing care, hypoallergenic skin care
HLA-DQ
Food allergies
Overactive immune system
Elimination diet practice, allergen immunotherapy
Armed with this information, it is possible to take preventative measures before symptoms appear .
Thoroughly moisturizes and strengthens the skin barrier
Use hypoallergenic skin care products
Consider the relationship with food allergies and manage your diet accordingly.
3) Food allergy management (HLA-DQ)
Develop a diet plan to avoid specific allergens
Consider oral immunotherapy (OIT) in consultation with your doctor
In case of serious injury, keep an EpiPen (adrenaline autoinjector) on hand.
3. Interaction between allergies and environmental factors
Not only genes but also environmental factors affect the onset and worsening of allergies . By managing both genetic information and environmental factors, it becomes possible to more effectively alleviate symptoms.
Gut flora (microbiome）
Certain probiotics (Bifidobacterium, L. reuteri) reduce allergy symptoms
By balancing the gut bacteria, we can suppress the overactive immune system.
Adjusting for environmental factors
Indoor dust mite and mold control (thorough cleaning and ventilation)
Owning a pet during infancy may reduce the risk of asthma (Lodge et al., 2012)
It is important to take these factors into account and take an approach that combines genetic information with environmental factors.
4. Cutting-edge allergy treatment using genetic information
Advances in genetic analysis technology have significantly improved the treatment of allergic diseases. In addition to conventional symptomatic treatment, personalized, optimized treatment using genetic information is becoming possible.
In recent years, the use of biopharmaceuticals in the treatment of allergies has increased. These drugs reduce symptoms by controlling specific immune responses, but it is known that the effectiveness of these drugs varies from person to person depending on genes .
Biopharmaceuticals
Suitable for allergic diseases
Mechanism of action
Related Genes
Dupilumab
Atopic dermatitis, asthma
Inhibition of IL-4 and IL-13 signals
IL4R
Omalizumab
Severe asthma, chronic urticaria
IgE inhibition
FCER1A
Mepolizumab
eosinophilic asthma
Inhibition of IL-5
IL5
Genetic testing can predict in advance which biopharmaceuticals will be most effective, enabling personalized treatment (Wechsler et al., 2019).
(2) Gene editing technology (CRISPR-Cas9) and allergy treatment
With the development of CRISPR-Cas9 technology, the possibility of fundamentally treating allergic diseases is being investigated. For example, attempts are being made to reduce the risk of developing asthma and atopic dermatitis by correcting certain mutations in the IL-4R gene (Plaschkes et al., 2021).
In addition, it may be possible to develop a treatment for food allergies that modulates immune responses by modifying the HLA-DQ gene . If this becomes a reality, it is expected that the quality of life of food allergy patients will be greatly improved.
5. Genetic information and lifestyle optimization
By utilizing genetic information, lifestyle choices can be individually optimized to prevent and manage allergies.
(1) Genetic relationship between nutrition and allergies
Now that we know the genes associated with allergies, it is possible to control the effects of diet more precisely .
FADS1 gene mutations and omega-3 fatty acid metabolism
Some people are unable to metabolize omega-3 fatty acids efficiently and consuming EPA and DHA directly can maximize their anti-inflammatory effects
HLA-DQ genes and gluten sensitivity
There is a strong association with gluten allergy (celiac disease), and genetic testing can be used to assess risk of wheat intake.
IL-10 gene and the effect of probiotics
For people with low IL-10 activity, taking lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria to balance the immune system can help reduce allergy symptoms.
In this way, genetic information can be used to design more effective dietary strategies.
(2) Optimization of environmental factors
Environmental factors also play a major role in the onset of allergies. By utilizing genetic information, it is possible to identify which environmental factors one should be careful of and optimize one’s living environment .
People with IL-33 gene mutations : prone to mite allergies, so actively use air purifiers and anti-mite bedding
People with ORMDL3 gene mutations : Because they are at high risk of asthma worsening due to tobacco smoke and air pollution, it is important to create a living environment that prioritizes air quality.
People with FLG gene mutations : Weak skin barrier function prevents dryness and maintains a high humidity environment
6. Future allergy management using genetic information
In the future, further developments in genetic analysis technology will likely enable more precise and individualized allergy management .
(1) Personalized prevention measures using AI
We are approaching an era in which AI technology can be used to integrate genetic information, health data, and lifestyle data to manage allergy risks in real time .
Risk prediction by AI：
Combining genetic test results with environmental data (temperature, pollen count, etc.) to assess individual allergy risk in real time
Integration with smart devices：
Wearable devices are used to monitor skin moisture and heart rate to detect signs of worsening symptoms.
(2) Advances in gene editing and personalized medicine
If gene therapy further evolves, it may be possible to develop a treatment that fundamentally improves allergy predisposition itself . For example, research is being conducted on a treatment that uses CRISPR-Cas9 to modify genes to suppress the immune system’s overreaction and fundamentally prevent allergies .
7. Individualized and optimized management of allergies based on genetic information
By utilizing genetic information, it becomes possible to optimize allergy management methods to suit each individual’s constitution. Here, we will introduce specific steps for individualized allergy management using genetic testing.
(1) Genetic testing and interpretation of results
First, it is important to undergo a reliable genetic test. By analyzing allergy-related genes, the following information can be obtained:
gene
Related Allergies
Impact characteristics
Recommended Controls
IL-4R
Bronchial asthma/hay fever
Overproduction of IL-4 increases inflammation
Use antihistamines and inhaled steroids
FLG
Atopic dermatitis
Weak skin barrier and prone to dryness
Use of moisturizing care and anti-inflammatory drugs
HLA-DQ
Food allergies
Overactive immune system
Consideration of elimination diet and allergen immunotherapy
Based on the test results, we will create an individually optimized management plan in consultation with doctors and specialists.
(2) Taking preventive measures according to the risk of developing allergies
① People at low risk (prevention approach)
Maintaining a healthy diet and preventing the development of allergies
Improve your living environment to minimize the effects of allergens
② High-risk individuals (active management)
Get regular checkups to detect the onset of allergy symptoms early
Under the guidance of a doctor, immunotherapy and appropriate drug therapy are carried out.
8. New allergy treatment methods using genetic information
Recent research has focused on an approach that utilizes genetic information as a new method of treating allergies.
(1) Immunotherapy and the use of genetic information
Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a treatment in which small amounts of allergens are administered to the body, gradually adapting the immune system. By utilizing genetic information, it is becoming possible to predict in advance which patients will be most effective with immunotherapy .
It has been found that the effectiveness of immunotherapy varies from person to person depending on HLA gene polymorphism (Bousquet et al., 2020)
Genetic analysis identifies patients with higher chances of success
(2) Relationship between the microbiome and allergies
It has become clear that the intestinal flora (microbiome) has a significant impact on the development of allergies. In particular, it has been reported that genes affect the balance of the intestinal environment, which in turn determines whether a particular probiotic is effective .
People with a mutation in the FUT2 gene : Possible reduction in allergy symptoms through active intake of bifidobacteria
People with low IL-10 gene activity : Lactobacillus reuteri is effective in regulating the immune system
It is hoped that in the future , this knowledge will be utilized to enable the selection of probiotics according to individual genotypes .
9. Environmental management and lifestyle adjustment using genetic information
By utilizing genetic information, it will be possible to manage the environment more effectively.
(1) Optimizing the living environment
People who are genetically predisposed to certain allergies can reduce symptoms by taking careful control of their living environment.
People with IL-33 gene mutations : High risk of allergies due to dust mites and mold, so it is recommended to use air purifiers and ventilate regularly
People with ORMDL3 gene mutations : Strengthen PM2.5 measures as air pollution may worsen asthma
(2) Optimizing exercise habits
For people with allergies, it is important to engage in appropriate exercise while taking into account genetic factors.
People at high risk of bronchial asthma (IL-4R, IL-13 mutations)
Warm up properly to prevent exercise-induced asthma
Low intensity indoor exercise (yoga, stretching) is recommended
People at high risk for atopic dermatitis (FLG mutations）
To prevent symptoms from worsening due to sweating, be sure to shower after exercise.
Low-impact exercise such as swimming is suitable.
10. Future measures against allergies using genetic testing
With future technological innovations, it is expected that allergy management using genetic information will become even more sophisticated.
(1) Preventive medicine using AI and big data
Advances in allergy management using AI will make it possible to predict allergy risk by integrating an individual’s genetic information, living environment data, and real-time health data .
Linking genetic testing with smart devices
Measures skin humidity and temperature to detect worsening atopic dermatitis in real time
Analyzing breathing data to provide advance warning of the risk of asthma attacks
(2) Fundamental treatment of allergies through gene editing
As gene editing technology using CRISPR-Cas9 advances, it may be possible to develop treatments that can correct allergic conditions .
Correcting the IL-4R gene significantly reduces the risk of developing asthma and hay fever
Modifying the HLA-DQ gene could provide a fundamental cure for food allergies
11. The future of allergy treatment using genetic information
Technology for allergy management based on genetic information is developing rapidly, and it is expected that more individually optimized treatments will become possible in the future.
(1) Preventing allergies with genetic vaccines
Conventional allergen immunotherapy (sublingual immunotherapy and subcutaneous injections) requires long-term treatment, but recent research has focused on allergy prevention using DNA vaccines.
Genetic vaccine that induces IL-10
Promotes the expression of IL-10 (an anti-inflammatory cytokine) that suppresses allergic reactions
It is expected that this technology will be applied to the prevention of hay fever and food allergies.
CRISPR-Based Vaccines
Regulating the IL-4R gene suppresses the onset of asthma and atopic dermatitis
Alleviating food allergies by modifying HLA genes
If such technology were to be put into practical use, it may be possible to prevent the onset of allergic diseases from the root (Akdis, 2021).
(2) Drug development using genetic information and nanotechnology
RNA therapy that acts directly on target genes is being researched as a new treatment utilizing nanotechnology.
siRNA (small interfering RNA)-based therapy
Regulating the expression of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, suppressing allergic reactions
Combined with nanoparticle technology that allows direct delivery to the skin and airways, it is expected to have a high therapeutic effect.
Application of mRNA vaccine technology
Utilizing mRNA technology used in the COVID-19 vaccine to promote the production of allergy-suppressing proteins
This brings us closer to an era in which fundamental treatment of allergies will be possible ( Zhang et al., 2022 ).
12. Next-generation allergy diagnosis using genetic information
(1) Allergy risk assessment using polygenic risk scores (PRS)
The latest genetic analysis makes it possible to perform more precise allergy risk assessments by utilizing a “polygenic risk score (PRS)” that combines multiple genes.
Asthma risk prediction using PRS
Analyzing hundreds of genetic mutations to quantify an individual’s risk of developing asthma
Taking preventive measures starting from childhood can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease.
Individual risk assessment for atopic dermatitis
Developed PRS combining gene mutations such as FLG, IL-13, and TSLP
Proper skin care from infancy can help prevent the onset of the condition.
By utilizing PRS, it is possible to comprehensively evaluate risks that could not be predicted by single genes and take more effective preventive measures (Dijk et al., 2023).
By utilizing AI technology, genetic information, environmental data, and health check results can be integrated to enable individually optimized allergy management.
Hay fever prediction system using AI
Combining genotypes, pollen counts, and weather data to predict the risk of worsening symptoms in real time
Suggesting the best time to take medicine based on predictive data
Integration with smart devices
Smartwatch measures skin moisture and blood oxygen levels to monitor risk of allergies in real time
AI proposes personalized allergy measures and manages symptoms in advance
This is bringing about an era in which individually optimized allergy prevention can be performed in real time.
13. Integrated approach of genetic information and environmental factors
Not only genetic factors but also environmental factors play a major role in the development of allergies. Recent research has led to the development of a system that comprehensively analyzes genetic information and environmental factors and suggests optimal living environments.
(1) A management method that combines environmental factors and genetic information
The gut microbiome and allergies
It has been discovered that certain intestinal bacteria suppress the onset of allergies depending on the genotype
Probiotic intake (L. reuteri, B. bifidum) is effective for certain genotypes
Diet-Gene Interactions
People with FADS1 gene mutations can suppress inflammation by increasing their intake of EPA and DHA
People with HLA-DQ gene mutations can reduce their risk of allergies by limiting wheat intake
Indoor environment management
People with IL-33 gene mutations can reduce dust mite allergy symptoms by using air purifiers and dehumidifiers
People with ORMDL3 gene mutations should take measures against air pollution to reduce their risk of asthma
14. A practical guide to self-care using genetic information
We will introduce specific self-care methods for using the results of genetic testing in your daily life and managing allergy symptoms.
(1) Optimizing diet according to genotype
Adjusting your diet based on your genetic risk is an important way to prevent the onset or worsening of allergies.
① Eat foods with anti-inflammatory properties
People with IL-13 gene mutations：
Since airway inflammation is likely to occur, actively consume omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, chia seeds)
Foods with high antioxidant properties (blueberries, green tea) are effective
People with the FLG gene mutation：
Since the skin’s barrier function is easily weakened, supplement with vitamin E (avocado, nuts) and ceramide (brown rice, wheat germ)
② Dietary restrictions considering the risk of food allergies
People affected by the HLA-DQ gene：
A gluten-free diet may be beneficial due to a high possibility of wheat allergy
(2) Environmental measures and lifestyle optimization
1) Allergen management
People with IL-33 gene mutations (high risk of mite and dust allergies):
Use an air purifier with a high-performance HEPA filter
Wash your futon and carpets frequently and use anti-mite covers
People with ORMDL3 gene mutations (sensitive to air pollution and PM2.5)：
Close the windows and place plants (sansevieria, pothos) to purify the indoor air.
② Stress management and immune regulation
People who are susceptible to the BDNF gene (high risk of stress-induced inflammation)：
Practice meditation and mindfulness to regulate your autonomic nervous system
Reduce stress by taking up yoga or walking
15. Future allergy prevention strategies using genetic information
It is believed that as genetic information becomes more widely used in the future, options for managing allergies will expand.
Development of radical treatment for allergies using gene editing technology
The spread of real-time health management systems using AI and big data
Providing treatments optimized for individual risks through personalized medicine
By utilizing genetic information, it is expected that the prevention and management of allergies will become more precise and individualized, significantly improving our quality of life.
Summary
By utilizing genetic information, it is possible to evaluate the risk of developing allergies in advance and to provide individually optimized prevention and management. Genes such as IL-4R, FLG, and HLA-DQ are involved in allergies, and dietary, environmental, and medical management based on these can help reduce symptoms. Furthermore, with advances in AI and gene editing technology, fundamental prevention and treatment of allergies are becoming a reality. In the future, personalized medicine tailored to individual genetic characteristics will likely become the mainstream of allergy countermeasures.
