Grant: Operating Grant: Programmatic Grants in Food and Health - LOI

Food allergy is an important health problem. There has been an alarming increase in the prevalence of food allergy over the last 15 years. The diagnosis of food allergy is extremely distressing for patients, primarily children, and their families. Furthermore, food allergy has far-reaching societal impact, ranging from manufacturing practices and food labeling regulations to dietary habits and school guidelines. It is of grave concern that even the most knowledgeable food allergic individuals may experience an astonishingly high rate of accidental exposures, particularly to peanut and other nuts. We have chosen to focus on peanut allergy for two reasons. First, it is the food allergy most associated with anaphylaxis, an acute and potentially lethal allergic reaction. Second, unlike other food allergies, peanut allergy generally starts in early childhood and is life-long in at least 80% of peanut allergic patients. A unique aspect of food allergy is that, unlike other allergic diseases, there are currently no available treatments with the exception of epinephrine that is given after the start of an acute allergic reaction. Our view is that lack of therapeutic options is a direct reflection of lack of knowledge in fundamental aspects of peanut allergy. Here, we have outlined three lines of investigation that could dramatically impact our ability to prevent, treat and reverse disease: 1) elucidating the mechanisms underlying the development of peanut allergy, 2) uncovering the molecular basis of anaphylactic reactions, and 3) understanding the basis of peanut allergy persistence. We take the stance that transformative research requires a multi-disciplinary team incorporating internationally recognized expertise and state-of-the-art technology spanning from experimental research to clinical translation and management. Findings from this team effort will impact dietary habits and nutritional practices resulting in enhanced health and reduced risk of chronic disease.