ALK-Abelló makes Breakthrough in Allergy Research
As the first in the world, a research team from ALK-Abelló A/S has mapped the composition of the allergen that is the chief cause of the house dust mite allergy in humans. The allergen, referred to as "Der p 1", triggers the allergic reaction. ALK-Abelló's research team has determined the 3-dimensional structure of the allergen and thereby revealed the moleculethat causes allergy to house dust mites, which is the most prevalent type of allergy worldwide.
ALK-Abelló ranks among the world's leading manufacturers of allergy therapies, and is diligently conducting research into the development of new and improved medications for the treatment of allergy. Getting at the very heart of the problem by mapping the actual cause of house dust mite allergy is therefore a significant achievement which may well lead to therapies that are more efficacious than those currently available.
The allergen occurs in the intestinal tract of the house dust mite, where it aids the mite's nutrient uptake. The allergen also occurs abundantly in house dust mite excreta, which are present as minute particles in most households. Owing to the size of the particles, they are readily stirred up and inhaled, and for people with the allergy, there will be a prompt reaction to the foreign protein of which the allergen consists.
ALK-Abelló A/S is a company characterized by significant growth, using the newest technology within research, development and production. In Europe, ALK-Abelló holds a leading position in the market for allergy treatment and has a significant position in the US and China. The company continuously launches new convenient products. In recent years, ALK-Abelló has pursued a product development strategy of extending the current market of specialist administered subcutaneous vaccination to orally delivered alternatives. ALK-Abelló's pipeline contains tablet-based products based on natural allergens against grass pollen and house dust mites. ALK-Abelló has app. 1200 employees globally and is headquartered in Medicon Valley.
For further information please contact:
Henrik Jacobi,
Executive Vice President R&D
Tel: + 45 45 74 74 45,
Email: HJa@dk.alk-abello.com
Or visit: www.alk-abello.com