Overview

• Proof-of-concept studies showed that a single intranasal dose of the XA19 antibody protected mice from mugwort pollen–induced hay fever and asthma symptoms.
• Treated mice exhibited markedly less nasal rubbing, reduced ear swelling, lower cytokine levels in the lungs, and maintained lung capacity compared with controls.
• The antibody forms a molecular shield at the nasal lining that neutralizes allergens on contact and prevents IgE activation.
• The mouse-derived antibody must be humanized and undergo additional preclinical safety and efficacy assessments before first-in-human trials.
• Researchers envision adapting the platform to target other pollen allergens such as ragweed and grass for personalized, needle-free allergy relief.