News, Wednesday 22 January 2025
Peanut allergy prevalence has increased worldwide, affecting 1.4–2% of populations in Europe and the United States, with higher rates among children. In Australia, approximately 3 in 100 children suffer from peanut allergies. While research indicates that 30% of children outgrow the allergy, many others remain at risk, underscoring the urgent need for safer and more effective treatments.
Currently, the mainstay treatment for peanut allergies is strict avoidance of peanuts and peanut-derived products, including oils. This requires individuals with peanut allergies to be constantly vigilant. They must avoid food containing peanuts or any trace of peanut derivatives, which can be found in unexpected products.
Dr Michal O’Sullivan, MBBS, FRACP, FRCPA, affiliated with Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth Children’s Hospital, and the University of Western Australia, explains: “The constant threat of accidental exposure to peanuts puts a significant burden on people with allergies. Every time they eat a meal, they must consider the ingredients, check food labels, and in many cases, change where they dine. Many people avoid social gatherings, parties, and even travel, as they fear potential exposure to allergens. This anxiety, coupled with the risk of life-threatening reactions, can severely impact their quality of life.”
Dr O’Sullivan is the lead investigator of the ACCELERATE Peanut Phase 1 Trial, which is testing a ground-breaking medication called IGNX001. This treatment aims to convert the antibodies responsible for triggering allergic reactions into protective blockers that prevent an allergic response when exposed to allergens like peanuts.
The trial, which is being conducted in collaboration with Fiona Stanley Hospital, St Vincent’s Hospital, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, and Monash Health, is evaluating the safety and tolerability of IGNX001 in a placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind study. The trial is set to run for three months and is open to participants aged 15 to 55 with a clinically diagnosed history of peanut allergy.
Dr O’Sullivan says, “This is the first time such a treatment has been trialled for individuals with peanut allergies. As a first-in-human trial, it will assess the safety of treating patients with peanut allergies and provide critical insights into how it works. It will also offer an indication of whether it is effective in preventing allergic reactions.”
The increasing prevalence of peanut allergies globally, which can lead to life-threatening consequences without prompt intervention, highlights the urgency of developing new methods of desensitisation and protection. “This innovation has the potential to be a transformative alternative to emergency epinephrine use, reducing the risks and anxiety associated with allergen exposure” Dr O’Sullivan concludes.
Where to find further information
- IgGenix Website- https://www.iggenix.com.au/ (external link)
- ClinicalTrials.Gov- https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06331728 (external link)
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Study Contact-
- Name: Jessica Grossman, MD
- Email: jgrossman@iggenix.com
This article was provided to Allergy Life Australia by IgGenix Australia Pty Ltd. This Page was last updated on 22nd January 2025.
Allergy Life Australia highlights allergy research studies and trials being conducted to keep the community informed. Unless detailed, Allergy Life Australia is not affiliated with any of the allergy research studies and trials listed and does not endorse or sponsor them. All study details, including eligibility, participation, and outcomes, are managed entirely by the respective study organisers or institutions. For specific questions or concerns regarding a study, please contact the organisers directly. Participation in any allergy research study and trial is voluntary and at your own discretion.
