Peanut allergy now cracked
Two thirds of children with peanut allergies have been seemingly cured through a world-first Melbourne medical breakthrough that may be adapted to other allergies. The Murdoch Children’s Research Institute study combined a gradual introduction of the dangerous food with high-dose probiotics.
TWO thirds of children with peanut allergies have been seemingly cured through a world-first Melbourne medical breakthrough that may be adapted to other allergies.
More than four years after completing a trial of a peanut-probiotic treatment, the majority of children involved can eat nuts with no symptoms.
Peanut allergies are among the most frequent causes of death from food allergy.
The Murdoch Children’s Research Institute study combined a gradual introduction of the dangerous food with highdose probiotics.
“They are eating peanuts at free will,” said Prof Mimi Tang.
“Maybe we are on to something that is going to change the lives of these children with peanut allergies, and maybe all food allergies.”
“I can’t even express it – it is just a wonderful, wonderful feeling that all the years of hard work have possibly, actually brought something home.”
The MCRI has received $8 million from a capital investment firm to fast-track the therapy so it can be available for patients within 10 years.