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Scientists in Japan have developed a nasal antibody spray that effectively blocks hay fever symptoms in mice, raising hopes for a needle-free, fast-acting allergy treatment for the millions who suffer from pollen allergies every year.
In a study published this week by researchers from the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO) and Kazusa DNA Research Institute (KazNARU), scientists reported that the specially developed antibody, when sprayed nasally, stopped the mice from reacting to pollen exposure. The innovation could significantly alter the future of allergy immunotherapy.
What Did the Scientists Do?
The team engineered a type of IgG antibody that specifically binds to Japanese cedar pollen—the main trigger of seasonal hay fever in Japan. Instead of injecting the antibody, they delivered it directly through the nose.
“We saw immediate suppression of allergic responses in the nasal passages of mice,” said Dr. Kenji Nasu, lead researcher at KazNARU. “This could pave the way for non-invasive treatment for humans.”
By applying the antibody where pollen enters the body—the nose—the treatment acts swiftly, blocking the allergic reaction before it can trigger sneezing, congestion, or watery eyes.
Why It Matters
Millions Affected Each Year
Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, affects an estimated 500 million people worldwide. In Japan alone, over 40% of the population suffers from cedar pollen allergies during the spring season.
The End of Needles?
Current treatments like antihistamines or immunotherapy injections often come with side effects or require long-term commitment. A nasal spray could provide fast, safe, and needle-free relief, especially helpful for children and elderly patients.
“This could change the game for allergy sufferers,” said Dr. Yumi Sasaki, an immunologist at the University of Tokyo not involved in the study. “A safe, nasal-delivered antibody would simplify treatment and improve patient compliance.”
What’s Next?
While the results are promising, researchers stress that human trials are still needed. The team is now preparing for preclinical safety studies and hopes to begin testing in humans within the next 2–3 years.
“We need to confirm that the antibodies are safe, non-irritating, and effective in humans,” Dr. Nasu added. “But we are optimistic.”
Experts note that nasal antibody therapies could eventually be tailored to other allergens like dust mites, mold, or pet dander, expanding the impact of this innovation beyond seasonal allergies.
Conclusion
This nasal antibody spray developed by KazNARU scientists could be a game-changer for hay fever treatment, offering a fast, non-invasive option for millions of allergy sufferers. If human trials prove successful, the era of painful injections and drowsy antihistamines may soon come to an end.
❓ FAQ: Can Nasal Antibodies Be Used for Other Allergies Too?
Yes. While this study focused on Japanese cedar pollen, the same antibody delivery method could be adapted to target other allergens like dust mites or pet dander in the future.