-SLIT-Research trends in Japan and overseas

1. The latest research on sublingual immunotherapy overseas

2. Research in Japan and future prospects for additional allergens

summary

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is being researched and put into practical use around the world as a fundamental treatment for allergic diseases. There are differences between Japan and other countries (especially the United States and Europe) in the progress of targeted allergens and treatment methods. Below is a summary of the latest research trends and future prospects in each region.

1. The latest research on sublingual immunotherapy overseas

Europe

In Europe, research and practical application of SLIT is being actively promoted. In particular, SLIT preparations for grass pollen and ragweed pollen have been developed and sold, expanding the options for patients. SLIT for mite allergies is also being developed and researched mainly in Europe, with ALK-Abelló of Denmark and Stallergenes Greer of France playing central roles.

America

Research on SLIT is also underway in the United States. In particular, clinical trials of SLIT are being conducted for food allergies such as peanuts and milk, and it is expected to become a new treatment for food allergy sufferers. However, these treatments are still in the research stage and have not yet been put into practical use as general treatments.

2. Research in Japan and future prospects for additional allergens

In Japan, SLIT is mainly covered by insurance for cedar pollen allergy and mite allergic rhinitis. In 2014, SLIT liquid for cedar pollen allergy ( Sidatren® ) was covered by insurance, and in 2015, SLIT tablets for mite allergy ( Miticur® , Asitea® ) were covered by insurance. Furthermore, in 2018, SLIT tablets with an increased amount of cedar allergens ( Sidacur® ) were released, and the applicable age range was expanded to 5 years old or older and under 65 years old .

Research into SLIT for cypress pollen allergy is currently underway in Japan. The study began in 2021 with support from the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED), with Mitsuhiro Okano of the International University of Health and Welfare as the lead researcher. If this research progresses, it is expected to become a new treatment option for cypress pollen allergy sufferers.

In addition, clinical trials of SLIT for mite allergy asthma have been completed, and future development plans are currently being considered, which may lead to an expansion of the application of SLIT to asthma patients.

summary

There are differences between Japan and other countries in the progress of SLIT target allergens and treatment methods. In Japan, SLIT is mainly used for cedar pollen allergy and mite allergic rhinitis, while overseas, research on SLIT for grass pollen, ragweed pollen, and even food allergies is progressing. In the future, it is expected that SLIT will be put to practical use in Japan for cypress pollen allergy and mite allergic asthma, further expanding the options for patients.