Study shows how allergies differ in urban, rural children
The study sheds light on how the immune system develops in early life and why urban children are more prone to allergies than rural children.
Led by researchers from the
University of Rochester
Medical Center (URMC) Department of Pediatrics, including MD/PhD student Catherine Pizzarello and senior author Kirsi Jarvinen-Seppo, MD, PhD, the study uncovered a unique subpopulation of T cells known as helper 2 (Th2) cells with distinct molecular characteristics.
T-cells are the foundational immune cells that fight off infections, but there is evidence that this specific subtype is recognizing certain foods as allergenic and attacking them, according to Jarvinen-Seppo.
"These pro-allergic T cells are more inflammatory than anything previously described in this context," said Jarvinen-Seppo, chief of
Pediatric Allergy
and Immunology at UR Medicine Golisano Children's Hospital.
"They were found more frequently in urban infants who later developed allergies, suggesting they may be a predictive biomarker or even a mechanistic driver of allergic disease."
The study compared blood samples from urban infants with those from infants in a farming community, specifically the Old Order Mennonites (OOM) of New York's Finger Lakes region--known for their low rates of allergies.
Researchers found that while urban infants had higher levels of the aggressive Th2 cells, OOM infants had more regulatory T cells that help keep the immune system in balance and reduce the likelihood of allergic responses.
While additional research is needed to identify a possible cause, Jarvinen-Seppo speculates that differences in the development of the gut microbiome between the two populations, and more exposure to "healthy" bacteria in rural children, may be a factor.
"The farming environment, which is rich in microbial exposure, appears to support the development of a more tolerant immune system. Meanwhile, the urban environment may promote the emergence of immune cells that are primed for allergic inflammation," said Jarvinen-Seppo.
The work is part of a broader, NIH-funded investigation into how early-life exposures influence long-term immune outcomes. In 2023, Jarvinen-Seppo's team received a $7 million grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) to study environmental, microbiome, and immune differences between OOM and urban infants.
The goal is to continue this foundational work to uncover protective factors that could be translated into preventive therapies, including probiotics or microbiome-supporting interventions.
"If we can identify the conditions for this disparity between the different T cell subpopulations, we can potentially find solutions in allergic disease development," Jarvinen-Seppo said.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
11 hours ago
- Time of India
7 Japanese drinks that can help melt belly fat naturally
Belly fat can be stubborn, but nature often provides simple, effective solutions. Japanese culture offers a variety of traditional drinks that may help reduce belly fat while supporting overall health. These beverages aren't just trendy, they're rooted in centuries of wellness practices and are packed with natural ingredients that boost metabolism, aid digestion, and promote fat burning. From antioxidant-rich green teas and matcha to fermented drinks like kombu tea and amazake, each beverage comes with unique benefits for your body. Incorporating them into your daily routine can enhance your weight management journey without drastic diets or complicated routines. Beyond their fat-fighting properties, these drinks also improve hydration, support gut health, and provide essential nutrients. In this guide, we'll explore 7 top Japanese drinks known for their potential to reduce belly fat, how they work, and tips for including them in your everyday lifestyle, backed by many studies published in the NIH . Shiso tea, Matcha, and other Japanese drinks that melt your belly fat naturally Green tea (Ryokucha) Green tea is a staple in Japanese households and a powerhouse for metabolism. Studies by NIH show that it is rich in catechins, a type of antioxidant, green tea helps stimulate fat burning, and improves energy expenditure. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Use an AI Writing Tool That Actually Understands Your Voice Grammarly Install Now Undo Drinking 2–3 cups daily can aid digestion, reduce bloating, and naturally support weight management. Matcha Matcha is finely powdered green tea leaves that contain concentrated antioxidants. Its high EGCG content, according to a study published in NIH , enhances metabolism and helps burn calories more efficiently. Preparing a cup of matcha in the morning can kickstart fat burning and provide a calm, sustained energy boost without caffeine jitters. Kombu tea Made from kelp (kombu), this mineral-rich tea is known to promote digestion and reduce bloating. It contains iodine, which supports thyroid function, helping regulate metabolism. Kombu tea can be enjoyed warm or cold and is especially beneficial when consumed before meals. Amazake Amazake is a traditional sweet, fermented rice drink that's low in fat but packed with enzymes and probiotics. Research by NIH shows it helps improve gut health, which is crucial for weight management and reducing abdominal fat. Enjoy a small glass as a mid-morning or evening drink for natural energy and digestive support. Barley tea (Mugicha) Barley tea is a caffeine-free, roasted grain tea commonly consumed in Japan during summer. It supports hydration, reduces bloating, and can aid in fat metabolism. Its mild, nutty flavor makes it an easy addition to your daily routine, whether hot or iced. Shiso tea Made from shiso leaves, this herbal tea is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Shiso tea promotes healthy digestion, detoxification and can help curb appetite naturally, making it a great ally for reducing belly fat over time. Sencha Sencha is another variety of green tea that's slightly milder than matcha. Packed with polyphenols, it helps burn fat, lowers cholesterol, and boosts overall metabolism. Drinking a cup daily after meals can support digestion and contribute to a leaner waistline. Incorporating these 7 Japanese drinks into your daily routine can be a simple, natural way to support belly fat reduction and overall health. They are easy to prepare, nutrient-rich, and deeply rooted in wellness traditions. Remember, consistency is key. Pair these drinks with a balanced diet and regular physical activity to maximize results. By making these beverages a regular habit, you can enjoy their fat-burning benefits while embracing a healthier, more energized lifestyle. Also read| Cold coffee vs hot coffee: Which one should you really be drinking?
India Today
14 hours ago
- India Today
When rattlesnakes marry their cousins: How inbreeding is killing the venomous snake
A 15-year study by Michigan State University (MSU) conservation biologists has uncovered a startling threat to the Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake, Michigan's only rattler species: inbreeding caused by habitat farms, and buildings have divided their wetlands into isolated patches, preventing these snakes from finding mates outside their immediate family groups and jeopardising their chances of traced family trees of more than 1,000 Eastern Massasaugas, caught and released as part of a US Fish and Wildlife Service-funded project. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study found that the most inbred snakes were 13% less likely to produce surviving offspring and had nearly 12% lower annual survival rates.'These populations are fairly large and stable, yet we're already seeing the negative effects of inbreeding,' said MSU professor Sarah Fitzpatrick, senior author of the study. She warns that smaller, more fragmented populations across the Midwest face even greater Massasauga rattlesnakes play a vital ecological role as keystone predators, controlling rodent populations in wetland ecosystems. Their decline could disrupt the delicate balance of these habitats, impacting nearby farms and snakes are homebodies, rarely venturing far from their natal wetlands. However, increasing human development restricts their movement further, forcing them to mate with close relatives. 'Even a single road can isolate populations,' Fitzpatrick study's long-term fieldwork, involving blood samples and genomic sequencing, allowed researchers to build detailed family trees and track survival and reproduction. Teams braved wetlands annually, capturing snakes to collect data before releasing them back, thanks to PIT findings highlight the urgent need for conservation measures to restore habitat connectivity. Road underpasses, habitat restoration, and even relocating rattlesnakes to healthier environments could improve gene flow and bolster often feared, Eastern Massasaugas are vital allies in Michigan's wetlands. Protecting them ensures these ecosystems remain balanced and healthy for future generations.- Ends
Time of India
16 hours ago
- Time of India
7 Side effects of sleep medication you should know to prevent serious health risks
Many people struggle with sleep problems, and chronic insomnia affects a significant number of adults. While sleep medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter, can help you fall asleep, even occasional use comes with health risks. Over time, frequent use may contribute to serious issues such as difficulty with daily activities, memory decline, increased risk of death, and next-day drowsiness. Older adults may be especially vulnerable to falls and other complications. Understanding these risks and exploring safer alternatives, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI) and healthy sleep routines, can help you get better rest without harming your long-term health. How sleep medication affects your body and what to do about it Higher risk of disability Long-term use of sleep medications has been linked to a higher risk of disability, especially in older adults. A study published in the Sage journal analysed over five years of data on more than 6,700 adults aged 65 and older. Researchers found that both worsening insomnia symptoms and increased sleep medication use were associated with a 20% higher risk of disability in daily life for each year of elevated use or symptoms. Essentially, while these medications may help with falling asleep, their prolonged use may accelerate functional decline, making daily activities more difficult. Experts recommend discussing ways to gradually reduce dependence under medical supervision. Higher risk of dementia Some sleep medications, particularly those with anticholinergic effects, may increase the risk of cognitive decline. Anticholinergic drugs work by blocking certain neurotransmitters in the brain and are often found in sleep aids, some pain and anxiety medications, and allergy treatments like diphenhydramine (Benadryl). A study published in NIH linked long-term use of these drugs to a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Alarmingly, the effects may persist even after stopping the medication. Older adults should consult healthcare providers to review the ingredients of their medications and consider safer alternatives if possible. Higher risk of death Regular use of certain hypnotic sleep medications has been associated with increased mortality. Even occasional users taking between one and 18 pills per year had a 3.6 times higher risk. The study suggested that these medications may contribute to fatal outcomes indirectly, through heart disease, cancer, or other serious conditions. This highlights the importance of careful evaluation before committing to long-term sleep medication use. Higher risk of cancer Frequent use of sleep medications may be linked to an increased risk of developing cancer. People who take these medications regularly, around 130 doses or more in a year, appear to have a higher chance of developing cancer compared to those who rarely or never use them. While more research is needed to fully understand this connection, it raises concerns about long-term exposure to sleep medications and their potential impact on overall health. Limiting prolonged use and exploring safer sleep strategies is recommended. Next-day impairment Sleep medications can impair alertness the following day, nearly doubling the risk of motor vehicle accidents. Extended-release formulations pose the highest risk, and women are more susceptible due to slower drug metabolism. Activities that require full alertness should be avoided until the medication's effects have worn off. Higher risk of falls Older adults taking sleep medications may face an increased risk of falls. Insomnia itself raises fall risk, and sleep aids do not necessarily mitigate this danger. Impaired balance, memory, and situational awareness make nighttime mobility especially hazardous. Increased risk of pancreatitis Emerging research also links certain sleep medications, such as zolpidem, to a higher risk of acute pancreatitis. A study published in Psychopharmacology analysed over 22,000 adults and found that those taking zolpidem were seven times more likely to develop pancreatitis than individuals who never used the drug. While rare, this severe side effect underscores the importance of careful monitoring and regular consultation with a healthcare professional. Quitting sleep medications can be challenging, but non-drug approaches often provide effective long-term relief. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI) is considered the gold standard, teaching strategies to reshape thoughts, behaviors, and routines that interfere with sleep. Research from Harvard University shows that CBTI is as effective as sleep medications initially, and its benefits last longer. Combining CBTI with lifestyle changes such as keeping a consistent sleep schedule, limiting daytime naps, avoiding stimulants close to bedtime, and practising relaxation techniques can help achieve restorative sleep without the risks associated with medications. Also Read: 10 Mistakes you are making when drinking water and how to fix them
