Clinical and Experimental Allergy - Prof Mo Shamji and Dr Boyle

The Clinical & Experimental Allergy Journal presents a special podcast episode celebrating the August 2025 issue, dedicated to “Allergy in China.” Hosted by Professor Mo Shamji, a leading immunologist and Co-Editor-in-Chief of the journal, this episode features three distinguished authors whose groundbreaking research sheds light on allergy trends, challenges, and innovations across China. Featured Guests & Discussion Highlights: Professor Gary Wong A renowned expert in paediatric allergy and respiratory medicine, Professor Wong discusses his paper “Early Origins of Asthma and Allergies: Clues from Studies in China.” He elaborates on why early-life longitudinal studies are vital for unraveling how urbanization, pollution, diet, and genetics influence asthma and allergy development. The discussion highlights actionable advice for parents and public health officials to reduce early childhood risks and points to urgent research needs amid China’s rapid environmental changes. Dr Agnes Sze-Yin Leung Specialising in paediatric immunology and allergy, Dr Leung shares insights from “Food Allergy in Children in China.” She explains regional differences in allergy rates, development of common allergens by age, and how diet and genetics may shape these trends. Dr Leung underscores critical gaps in diagnosis, access to care, and emergency preparedness, alongside promising public health initiatives improving food labelling, awareness, and family support. Dr Philip Li Focusing on drug allergy and immunological disorders, Dr Li reflects on “Hereditary Angioedema in China: Advancing Awareness, Access, Advocacy and Alliances from the Greater Bay Area to the Global HAE Community.” He details the success of the innovative “4As” strategy—awareness, access, advocacy, and alliances—and the positive impact of education and outreach programs in raising HAE diagnosis and care standards. The conversation also explores ongoing diagnostic challenges and the growing role of cross-border collaborations in driving progress. Podcast takeaways: This special podcast provides a comprehensive exploration of allergy science and clinical care in China, capturing the dynamic interplay between increasing urbanization, diverse environmental exposures, genetic factors, and evolving healthcare systems. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on both the population-level epidemiology and individual patient experiences shaping China’s allergy landscape. The discussions emphasize critical needs: timely diagnosis, improved access to specialized care, enhanced public education, and multisectoral collaboration to advance prevention and management strategies. This episode offers practical insights useful for clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and families dedicated to improving allergic disease outcomes in rapidly changing settings. Tune in to hear expert perspectives on the latest allergy research and the future of care in China’s diverse communities.

Keywords Oral immunotherapy, food allergies, preschoolers, allergy research, immunology, safety, treatment, public health, pediatric allergies, clinical practice   Summary This podcast episode features Dr. Lianne Soller discussing the significance of oral immunotherapy (OIT) in preschoolers, emphasising its safety, the importance of early intervention, and the need for a shift in public health messaging regarding food allergies. The conversation explores the unique characteristics of preschoolers' immune systems that make them more responsive to treatment, practical applications of OIT in various healthcare settings, and the potential for OIT to become a standard approach in managing food allergies.   Takeaways Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is crucial for preschoolers. Starting OIT early prevents food aversion in children. Preschoolers' immune systems are more adaptable to treatment. OIT is safer for younger children than previously thought. Healthcare providers should reassure families about OIT safety. Telehealth can facilitate access to OIT for remote families. OIT protocols can be adjusted for individual patient needs. Public health messaging needs to evolve regarding food allergies. Shared decision-making is essential in allergy management. Normalising the introduction of allergens is important for children.  

Keywords Allergy, lipid transfer protein, food allergy, pollen food syndrome, diagnosis, management, diet, adrenaline, co-factors, clinical research     Summary In this episode of the Clinical and Experimental Allergy podcast, hosts Mo Shamji and Robert Boyle engage with Dr. Isabel Skypala, a consultant allergy dietician, to discuss the increasing recognition of lipid transfer protein (LTP) allergy in the UK. Dr. Skypala shares insights into the challenges of diagnosing LTP allergy, particularly due to its overlap with pollen food syndrome, and emphasizes the importance of a thorough clinical history. The conversation also covers management strategies for patients with LTP allergy, including the role of co-factors, the creation of safe diets, and considerations for the use of adrenaline auto-injectors. Dr. Skypala highlights the need for individualized approaches in allergy management, ensuring that patients can maintain a balanced diet while avoiding triggers.   Takeaways LTP allergy is increasingly recognized in the UK. Diagnosis requires careful clinical history taking. Symptoms of LTP allergy can vary significantly. Cofactors like exercise and alcohol can trigger reactions. Individualized dietary plans are essential for patients. Food challenges can help identify safe foods. Different varieties of fruits may be tolerated differently. Adrenaline auto-injectors may be necessary for high-risk patients. Management strategies must consider lifestyle factors. Collaboration among clinicians is vital for effective allergy management. Chapters   00:00 Introduction to the speakers 01:17 Understanding Lipid Transfer Protein Allergy 02:54 Challenges in Diagnosing LTP Allergy 04:22 Management Strategies for LTP Allergy with co-factors 05:32 Dietary Considerations and Food Challenges 07:21 Adrenaline Auto-Injectors and Risk Assessment 08:41 Closing the podcast

Keywords Chronic cough, TRP receptors, P2X3 receptors, neuroplasticity, allergy, immunology, ATP release, bronchial epithelial cells, therapeutic approaches, research     Summary: In this episode of the Clinical and Experimental Allergy podcast, Dr. Jonathan Bernstein discusses his research on chronic cough, focusing on the role of TRP receptors and P2X3 receptors in understanding the mechanisms behind this condition. He shares insights from his in vitro studies, unexpected findings related to chronic cough pathways, and potential future therapeutic approaches targeting these receptors.   Takeaways Dr. Bernstein is a professor of medicine at the University of Cincinnati. His research focuses on chronic cough and its underlying mechanisms. In vitro assays help isolate different cell activation pathways. ATP release is critical for activating P2X3 receptors on bronchial epithelial cells. Unexpected pathways activated by ATP include FAC signaling and IL-4. P2X3 antagonists can down-regulate pathways promoting airway inflammation. TRP receptors are the first interface between the body and the environment. Nonspecific triggers can activate TRP receptors, leading to increased ATP release. Selective antagonists for TRP receptors are still lacking. The nervous system plays a critical role in cough reflex mechanisms.

Keywords: Allergic Rhinitis, Treatment Adherence, Mobile Health, Clinical Guidelines, Patient-Centered Care, Research Study, Asthma, Medication Patterns, Visual Analog Scales, Health Technology   Summary:  In this podcast episode, Mo Shamji interviews Bernardo Sousa Pinto about his recent study on treatment adherence in allergic rhinitis during the pollen season in Europe. The discussion covers the rationale behind the study, the use of mobile health apps for data collection, unexpected findings regarding medication adherence, and the implications for future clinical guidelines. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding patient behavior and tailoring recommendations to improve treatment outcomes.   Takeaways The study focuses on adherence to treatment in allergic rhinitis. Patients often do not adhere to their medication regimens. Mobile health apps can provide valuable data on patient behavior. Adherence patterns vary by medication type. Unexpectedly, partially adherent patients had better symptom control with fixed combinations. The findings may influence future guidelines for allergic rhinitis treatment. A patient-centered approach is essential in developing recommendations. Observational data can inform clinical practice despite limitations. Future studies should explore intervention strategies for non-adherent patients. The integration of mobile health data can enhance understanding of treatment adherence. Titles Exploring Treatment Adherence in Allergic Rhinitis The Role of Mobile Health in Allergy Management   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 02:31 Understanding the Study's Rationale and Hypotheses 04:58 Exploring the MassCare App and Its Methodology 07:35 Unexpected Findings and Their Implications 10:29 Impact on Future Guidelines and Research Directions