Changes in the Expression of MicroRNA in the Buildup Phase of Wasp Venom Immunotherapy: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Allergen-specific immunotherapy is the most effective method of treatment in allergy to wasp venom. However, its mechanism of action is still not fully understood. The aim of this study is to describe changes in microRNA (miRNA) expression in patients undergoing the buildup phase of venom immunotherapy. Methods: The study group comprised 7 adult patients with a history of severe systemic reactions after stinging by a wasp. In all patients, sensitization to wasp venom had been confirmed by skin tests and serum IgE. The buildup phase of wasp venom immunotherapy (VIT) was conducted according to an ultrarush protocol. In blood samples collected before and 24 h after completing the VIT buildup phase, 740 miRNAs were assessed. Results: Of the 740 miRNAs, 440 were detected in the study group, and in 5 expression was significantly changed after the buildup phase of VIT: miR-370, miR-539, miR-502-3p, miR-299, and miR-29c. Another 62 miRNAs changed 2-fold in some patients (nonsignificant), including increases in miR-143 (stimulating FOXp3 expression) and let-7d (reducing expression of IL-13, IL-6, and TLR4), and decreases in proinflammatory miR-301, miR-146b, miR-106, and miR-485. Conclusions: Several changes in miRNA expression have been found as a result of the buildup phase of wasp VIT, with lower expression of some miRNAs involved in allergic inflammation and higher expression of those possibly involved in tolerance induction. However, the role of the most significant changes is uncertain.