Grass pollen allergoids conjugated with mannan for subcutaneous and
sublingual immunotherapy: a dose-finding study.
Abstract
Background: Polymerized allergoids conjugated with mannan
represent a novel approach of allergen immunotherapy targeting dendritic
cells. In this study, we aimed to determine the optimal dose of
mannan-allergoid conjugates derived from grass pollen ( Phleum
pratense and Dactylis glomerata) administered via either the
subcutaneous or sublingual route. Methods: A randomized,
double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with a double-dummy design was
conducted, involving 162 participants across 12 centers in Spain.
Subjects were randomly allocated to one of nine different treatment
groups, each receiving either placebo or active treatment at doses of
500, 1,000, 3,000, or 5,000 mTU/mL over four months. Each participant
received five subcutaneous (SC) doses of 0.5 mL each, every 30 days, and
a daily sublingual (SL) dose of 0.2 mL. The primary efficacy outcome was
the improvement in titrated nasal provocation tests (NPT) at the end of
the study compared to baseline. Secondary outcomes included specific
antibody (IgG4, IgE) and cellular (IL-10 producing and regulatory T
cell) responses. All adverse events and side reactions were recorded and
assessed. Results: Post-treatment, the active groups showed
improvements in NPT ranging from 33% to 53%, with the highest doses
showing the greatest improvements regardless of the administration
route. In comparison, the placebo group showed a 12% improvement.
Significant differences over placebo were observed at doses of 3,000
mTU/mL (p=0.049 for SL, p=0.015 for SC) and 5,000 mTU/mL (p=0.011 for
SL, p=0.015 for SC). A dose-dependent increase in IgG4 was observed
following SC administration, and an increase in IL-10 producing cells
for both routes of administration. No serious systemic or local adverse
reactions were recorded, and no adrenaline was required.
Conclusions: Grass pollen immunotherapy with mannan-allergoid
conjugates was found to be safe and efficacious in achieving the primary
outcome, whether administered via the subcutaneous or sublingual routes,
at doses of 3,000 and 5,000 mTU/mL.