Analysis of inflammasome activation in Hymenoptera allergic patients

Abstract

Hymenopterous stings such as bees, wasps, and some ants are known to cause allergic reactions to the venom injected into the skin in approximately 3% of the general population, which can lead to death from anaphylaxis. Although the type 1 hypersensitivity reaction (mediated by IgE) is recognized as the main response mechanism, the molecular mechanisms triggered by the injected venom and the response mediated by the innate immune system are not fully elucidated. The allergic reaction is a multifactorial trait, where the individual's genetics represent a predisposing factor. Among the factors associated with an increased risk of developing hypersensitivity are genes related to inflammation and the cytosolic complex known as inflammasome, which is responsible for the release of the cytokines IL-1² and IL-18. Some previous studies demonstrated that the common bee venom, as well as its isolated component (melittin), induces the activation of NLRP3 or AIM2 inflammasome in a human monocytic lineage and in keratinocytes, respectively. In this project, we propose to evaluate whether and how the venom of hymenopterous that induces hypersensitivity in the Brazilian population activates the inflammasome complex in human leukocytes isolated from allergic and non-allergic individuals.(AU)