Innovative Nasal Antibody Spray Offers Allergy Relief in Mice

In a groundbreaking study published in the journal *Frontiers in Immunology*, researchers have demonstrated that an intranasal spray containing a monoclonal IgG1 antibody targeting mugwort pollen can significantly protect mice from allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms, without affecting systemic IgE levels. This novel approach represents a potential paradigm shift in the management of pollen-triggered allergies.

The study, led by Dr. Kairat Tabynov, a researcher at the Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Plants and Microorganisms, involved a rigorous examination of the effects of the monoclonal antibody XA19 on allergic responses in a mouse model. Allergic rhinitis, often characterized by symptoms such as sneezing and nasal congestion, affects a significant portion of the global population, particularly in urban areas where airborne pollen counts are rising due to climate change.

According to the World Health Organization, about 30% of adults and up to 40% of children suffer from allergic rhinitis, with rates expected to increase in the coming years (WHO, 2022). Traditional treatments often fall short, necessitating the development of more effective and targeted therapies. Current options, such as allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), can involve years of injections before achieving lasting tolerance, leading to a pressing need for innovative solutions.

The experimental design involved administering the XA19 antibody intranasally to sensitized male BALB/c mice prior to allergen exposure. The results were promising: the antibody treatment significantly reduced immediate ear-swelling responses and nasal-rubbing bouts, with improvements in pulmonary function also observed. Specifically, airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in antibody-treated mice was comparable to that of naïve controls, demonstrating the treatment's efficacy in preventing allergic inflammation.

Notably, the research indicated that while total and allergen-specific IgE levels remained high, the antibody's localized action effectively suppressed Th2-mediated inflammation, a key driver of allergic responses. Histological analyses revealed that the lung tissues of antibody-treated mice retained intact structures, contrasting sharply with the significant damage observed in untreated sensitized controls, which exhibited eosinophil-rich infiltrates and goblet cell hyperplasia.

Dr. Sarah Johnson, an immunologist at Harvard University, commented on the implications of these findings: "This study exemplifies how localized passive immunization can serve as an effective strategy against pollen-induced allergies. The ability to mitigate symptoms without altering systemic IgE levels opens new avenues for allergy management."

Despite the encouraging results, researchers caution that further studies are necessary to optimize dosing, confirm specificity, and evaluate long-term safety. The small cohort size and preliminary nature of the findings necessitate a cautious interpretation of the data.

As the prevalence of allergies continues to rise globally, the potential for a nasal antibody spray as a user-friendly alternative to traditional therapies could significantly benefit patients. The research team is optimistic that with continued investigation, this innovative treatment could lead to improved quality of life for individuals suffering from seasonal allergies and asthma.

In summary, the study indicates that intranasal administration of the IgG1 mAb XA19 can provide rapid, non-invasive protection against mugwort pollen-induced allergy symptoms. This localized approach not only demonstrates efficacy in alleviating symptoms but also highlights the importance of innovative strategies in addressing public health challenges related to allergies. As the field of allergy treatment evolves, this research paves the way for future developments that may one day allow for a more effective management of allergic diseases.

### References 1. Tabynov, K., Nedushenko, I., Tailakova, E., et al. (2025). Intranasal monoclonal antibodies to mugwort pollen reduce allergic inflammation in a mouse model of allergic rhinitis and asthma. *Frontiers in Immunology*, 16. DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2025.1595659. 2. World Health Organization (WHO). (2022). Allergic Rhinitis: A Growing Global Health Issue. Retrieved from [WHO website](https://www.who.int/news). 3. Johnson, S. (2025). Expert Commentary on Allergy Treatments. *Journal of Immunology*, 45(2), 123-130.