Low-allergen Wheat Variations in Development Bring Good News for the Wheat-sensitive

New study has revealed significant insights about the proteins causing two of the most common types of wheat sensitivity - occupational asthma (baker’s asthma) and non-celiac wheat sensitivity. The findings of the study are published in the Journal of Proteome Research.

With an estimated 10 percent of people suffering from wheat sensitivity or allergy-causing a raft of chronic health issues, researchers are developing tests that will help the production of low-allergen wheat varieties in the future.

Allergy - Causes - Symptoms - Diagnosis - Treatment - FAQs - Videos
An allergy is a hypersensitive disorder of immune system. Substances that often cause allergic reactions are pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, food, insect stings and medicines.

‘Wheat allergies develop when the body's immune system becomes sensitized and overreacts to wheat. ’

Tweet it Now

ECU Professor of Food and Agriculture Michelle Colgrave led the investigation.

"We have known for a long time that certain wheat proteins can trigger an immune response in some people, but now we have developed a way to detect and quantify these proteins," Professor Colgrave said.

"We looked a group of proteins called alpha-amylase/trypsin inhibitors (ATIs), which are known to trigger the intestinal inflammation and chronic ailments associated with wheat intolerance in some people.

Allergy Eye Drops - Types & How to Use
Eye allergies are treated with different types of eye drops such as lubricants, antihistamines, NSAIDs and corticosteroids. Eye drops are used to reduce allergies, eye infection and help healing.

"These ATI proteins are commonly found in wheat and play an important role in plant defense against pests and also act as an important nutrient for plant growth and human nutrition."

The research has resulted in a reference map of wheat ATI proteins across a diverse range of wheat varieties that represent more than 80 percent of the genetic diversity found in commercial bread wheat.

Allergy - Symptom Evaluation - Types - FAQs
An allergic reaction may be mild or severe. It usually involves the skin, respiratory system, eyes, digestive system or blood pressure.

The researchers developed an innovative new technique to specifically measure 18 of these proteins, which will help breeders to select varieties with low ATI protein levels in the future or food manufacturers to detect these proteins in food.

"This is a promising step towards future wheat breeding programs that aim to produce safe and healthy wheat varieties to meet the needs of consumers that currently rely on total wheat avoidance," Professor Colgrave said.

Children With Celiac Disease Are Put on Gluten-Free Diet Without Physician Consultation
Gluten-free diet is believed to be a healthy lifestyle choice with no disadvantages, but it could increase fat and calorie intake.

Source-Eurekalert