Summary:
Nanotechnology, the use of nanomaterials at the molecular level, is a multidisciplinary scientific field undergoing exponential growth and has broad applications among all divisions of science.
One form of nanomaterials, fullerenes, are soccer ball-shaped, carbon cages (C60) that can be functionalized and derivatized with a wide array of molecules. Given their unique structure, inertness, and characteristic stability, fullerenes are being investigated as a novel way to improve upon modalities used to diagnose, monitor, and treat certain conditions.
Type I hypersensitivity is the result of B cell-produced, specific IgE Ab to common, normally innocuous Ags. The allergen-specific IgE sensitizes mast cells (MC) and peripheral blood basophils (PBB). Re-exposure to the allergen triggers an allergic response through the release of inflammatory mediators from MC and PBB.
Indeed, many allergy medications are aimed at neutralizing (antihistamines, H1-receptor blockers) or preventing (antiIgE; Omalizumab) this response.
No studies have examined the effects that C60 fullerenes have on the MC and PBB allergic responses.
Previous studies in other cellular systems demonstrated that these molecules can inhibit various cellular pathways.
We used human skin and lung MC, PBB, and an in vivo model for MC-dependent anaphylaxis to investigate the effects these molecules have on the allergic response.
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