Identification Of Allergens Research Articles

PLM4Alg: Protein Language Model-Based Predictors for Allergenic Proteins and Peptides.

The rising prevalence of allergy demands efficient and accurate bioinformatic tools to expedite allergen identification and risk assessment while also reducing wet experiment expenses and time. Recently, pretrained protein language models (pLMs) have successfully predicted protein structure and function. However, to our best knowledge, they have not been used for predicting allergenic proteins/peptides. Therefore, this study aims to develop robust models for allergenic protein/peptide prediction using five pLMs of varying sizes and systematically assess their performance through fine-tuning with a convolutional neural network. The developed pLM4Alg models have achieved state-of-the-art performance with accuracy, Matthews correlation coefficient, and area under the curve scoring 93.4-95.1%, 0.869-0.902, and 0.981-0.990, respectively. Moreover, pLM4Alg is the first model capable of handling prediction tasks involving residue-missed sequences and sequences containing nonstandard amino acid residues. To facilitate easy access, a user-friendly web server (https://f6wxpfd3sh.us-east-1.awsapprunner.com) has been established. pLM4Alg is expected to become the leading machine learning-based prediction model for allergenic peptides and proteins. Its collaboration with other predictors holds great promise for accelerating allergy research.

Analysis of Turkish cuisine flavors network

SummaryThe variety of ingredients used in regional cuisine depends on cultural characteristics and the agricultural products available in a region. Native and in‐season foods are frequently used in local cooking. Products like fruits and vegetables may be obtained from nearby farms. The cultural backgrounds of the local population might also have an impact on the cuisine. A balanced combination of four different tastes (bitter, sweet, salty and sour) increases the appeal of a dish. In this study, a flavour network of Turkish cuisine is built and analysed by examining the relationships between recipes, ingredients and components (including vitamins and minerals like iron and calcium). We created a data set containing recipes and ingredients from five different regional cuisines of Turkiye that span a wide range of geographical and climatic areas. Several analyses have been conducted on Turkish cuisine at both the regional and country levels. This data set also contains component information that can be used to perform various analyses, such as calorie information and allergen identification. The results revealed that Turkish cuisine favours cattle meat from animal products, lemon from fruits, yogurt from dairy products, butter from oils and wheat flour from cereal products.

Analysis of Food Allergen Labeling Regulations on Consumer Safety in Zimbabwe

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate analysis of food allergen labeling regulations on consumer safety in Zimbabwe
 Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
 Findings: This study addresses the significance of food allergen concerns for consumers and food business operators in Zimbabwe. It acknowledges the adoption of the Codex Alimentarius standard (NL 206) for allergen labeling in the country. However, it highlights a research gap in understanding the knowledge and practices of consumers and FBOs regarding food allergies and labeling. The study aims to conduct surveys in Harare, analyzing compliance with NL 206 for local and imported packaged foods. The goal is to provide insights and recommendations for improving food allergen labeling, consumer safety, and awareness in Zimbabwe.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Health Belief Model (HBM), Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) & Diffusion of Innovations Theory may be used to anchor future studies on analysis of food allergen labeling regulations on consumer safety in Zimbabwe. Invest in comprehensive consumer education and awareness campaigns to empower individuals to make safe food choices, contributing to enhanced food safety in practice. Work towards global harmonization of allergen labeling standards as a policy measure to simplify compliance for manufacturers and ensure consistent allergen identification on food labels.

Proteome analysis of propolis deciphering the origin and function of its proteins

Propolis is a resinous honeybee product, rich in polyphenolic compounds and with high economic value. Although extensive studies regarding the chemical composition of different propolis extracts have been carried out, the propolis proteome remained unknown. The present study aimed at characterizing the proteome of two geographically-distinct propolis originating from Belgium and Iran. Propolis extracts were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel (SDS-PAGE) followed by Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization – Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and Liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization MS (LC-ESI-MS) analyses. Our comprehensive proteomic analysis led to the identification of honeybee venom and royal jelly proteins, and numerous plant-defense proteins in propolis, extending our understanding of the antimicrobial properties of this complex natural substance. The proteome of both propolis was mainly made up of proteins belonging to the poplar tree. Pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins, poplar PR-2 (β-1,3-glucanases) and PR-8 (acidic endochitinases) were found to be the major components of both propolis extracts, while the major bee venom allergen (Api m 1) and royal jelly proteins (MJRP 1, 2, 3 and 5) were identified in the propolis from Belgium. Overall, our proteome analyses revealed that propolis extracts from Belgium and Iran shared a core protein composition originating from the poplar proteome. The majority of identified proteins are involved in the plant defense against pathogens, most belonging to well-known pathogenesis-related families. Proteomics could thus represent a viable approach for origin authentication and allergen identification in poplar-type propolis.

IgE and IgG4 epitopes of the peanut allergens shift following oral immunotherapy

BackgroundOral immunotherapy (OIT) with peanut (Arachis hypogaea) allergen powder-dnfp (PTAH; Aimmune Therapeutics) is an FDA-approved treatment to desensitize peanut allergic participants.ObjectiveHere we assessed shifts in IgE and IgG4 binding to peanut allergens and their epitopes recognized by United States (US) peanut allergic participants (n = 20) enrolled in phase 3 PTAH OIT clinical trials.MethodsPre- and post- trial participant sera were collected approximately 12 months apart and tested for IgE binding to intact peanut proteins via ImmunoCAP ISAC immunoassays. IgE and IgG4 linear epitopes were identified based on binding to synthetic overlapping 15-mer linear peptides of 10 peanut allergens (Ara h 1-11) synthesized on microarray slides.ResultsStatistically significant decreases in IgE binding were identified for intact Ara h 2, 3, and 6, and known and newly identified IgE epitopes were shown to exhibit shifts towards IgG4 binding post-OIT, with most linear peptides having increased IgG4 binding after treatment with PTAH. While PTAH does not seem to alter the actual peptide binding patterns significantly after one year of treatment, the IgE and IgG4 binding ratios and intensity are altered.ConclusionAt a population level, the linear IgE and IgG4 epitopes of 10 peanut allergens overlap and that increase in IgG4 with OIT results in displacement of IgE binding to both conformational and linear epitopes. Furthermore, it appears as though the increase in IgG4 is more important to achieve desensitization at the 12-month timepoint than the decrease in IgE. This type of knowledge can be useful in the identification of IgE and IgG4-binding allergen and peptide biomarkers that may indicate desensitization or sustained unresponsiveness of allergic individuals to peanut.

Retrospective Analysis of Allergen Distribution Dynamics in Central Taiwan.

Introduction: Allergy is a type Ⅰ hypersensitivity reaction to certain substances (allergens) such as environmental factors, food and drugs. Allergies are a significant public health issue, and therefore, understanding the distribution patterns of allergens in specific regions is important. This study aimed to retrospectively analyse allergen distribution patterns in Central Taiwan over a 5years period (2018-2022). Methods: Data of patients who had allergen sensitization testing using the OPTIGEN® Allergen-Specific IgE Assay from the 1st of January 2018 to the 31st of December 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the prevalence and distribution of allergens in our study population. Results: A total of 8,444 patients (3,784 males and 4,660 females) who attended the Asia University Hospital for allergen detection were enrolled in this study. Dermatophagoides farina (41.8%), Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (37.9%), house dust (24.6%), cockroach mix (17.7%), crab (12.6%), clam (9.8%), shrimp (9.1%), cat dander (8.1%), pig weed (8%) and peanut (7.8%) were identified as the ten allergens that most commonly induced sensitization in our study population. Additionally, crab, clam, shrimp, peanut and beef were the five most common food allergens. Conclusion: In summary, our findings contribute significantly to the knowledge on allergen distribution in Central Taiwan. Our identification of prevalent allergens may contribute to an improved understanding of the epidemiology of allergies in this region.

Unveiling the potential of proteomics in addressing food and feed safety challenges.

The food and feed sector in Europe is rapidly evolving to address contemporary challenges, striving for fairer, safer, greener and more sustainable food systems. This includes the exploration of new protein sources for human consumption and animal feed such as protein derived from insects, algae or novel plant-derived proteins, and the re-evaluation of existing sources like processed animal protein (PAP). To generate reliable data on the diverse array of emerging protein sources for future food and feed safety assessments, a growing demand for the development and implementation of advanced analytical techniques exists. New approach methodologies (NAMs) including, mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics methods have been emerging as valuable techniques which potentially can be implemented in regulatory laboratory settings to complement conventional approaches in this realm. These MS-driven strategies have already proven their utility in diverse applications, including the detection of prohibited substances in feed, identification of allergens, differentiation of fish species in complex mixtures for fraud detection and the verification of novel foods and alternative protein sources. This EU-FORA programme was focused on three core objectives namely: (i) the training of the fellow in utilising MS-based proteomics for food and feed safety analyses, (ii) the involvement of the fellow in the development of standardised operating procedures (SOP) for targeted and non-targeted proteomic MS-based workflows for species and tissues specific PAP identification in a national reference laboratory (NRL) and (iii) the transfer and implementation of MS-based approaches and standardised protocols for PAP analysis at the fellow's home institution. Altogether, this programme facilitates the broadening and diversification of use of MS-based proteomic methodologies for reinforcing their significance within the domains of food and feed safety research and regulatory science applications.

Polymerase chain reaction: a powerful analytical tool in the field of food safety

Abstract The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the canonical DNA analysis technique that has enabled the understanding of the complexity of organisms and significantly advanced achievements in the field of biological sciences. Today, the method is still widely used in basic science research, but PCR-based diagnostics are becoming increasingly important in industries such as food and agriculture. This method provides high sensitivity because it requires trace amounts of template DNA to generate enough copies for detection. Using primers specific to the DNA sequence ensures the high specificity of the test. The advantages of the method are time – and cost-effectiveness and reproducibility. PCR-based techniques have found favor in areas where food traceability is important, whether from an economic, legal, health, or religious-cultural point of view. This review outlines the most important aspects in which the PCR method has been successfully applied, namely in the protection of human health by enabling the identification of foodborne pathogens or allergens. Furthermore, the use of PCR in the so-called green criminology, a branch that deals with tracking illegal practices such as food adulteration, compliance with the labeling rules, and detection of food products containing GMO material or other undeclared food ingredients, was also described.

Necesidades no cubiertas en asma alérgica grave

Severe asthma affects 3%-10% of the world's population, according to estimates by the Global Initiative for ASTHMA (GINA). Allergic asthma is one of the most common phenotypes of severe asthma and it is characterized by allergen-induced type2 inflammation in which immunoglobulinE (IgE) is a key mediator, making it an important therapeutic target. The introduction of targeted biological therapies or treatments has entered the management for severe asthma in the era of precision medicine, and the goal of treatment is clinical remission of the disease. There is a significant percentage of patients with severe allergic asthma who do not respond to treatments and whose symptoms are not controlled. In this paper, a group of experts in the management of severe allergic asthma reviewed and evaluated the most relevant evidence regarding the pathophysiology and phenotypes of severe allergic asthma, the role of IgE in allergic inflammation, allergen identification, techniques, biomarkers and diagnostic challenges, available treatments and strategies for disease management, with a special focus on biological treatments. From this review, recommendations were developed and validated through a Delphi consensus process with the aim of offering improvements in the management of severe allergic asthma to the professionals involved and identifying the unmet needs in the management of this pathology.

Nutrition, allergenicity and physicochemical qualities of food-grade protein extracts from Nannochloropsis oculata.

Microalgae offer an opportunity to act as a sustainable source of dietary protein. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of different protein extraction methods on the nutritional and physicochemical properties of Nannochloropsis oculata. Food-grade protein extracts were obtained by hypotonic osmotic shock using milli-Q water. Food grade (FG) and non-food grade (NFG) extraction buffers were compared along with three cell disruption methods including bead beating, probe sonication and a combination of both methods for protein extraction. Mass spectrometry was used for protein and putative allergen identification in FG extracts. Bead beating led to a slightly higher number of identifiable proteins in FG extracts compared to control condition. Putative allergenic proteins were identified in FG extracts of N. oculata using different in-silico methods. These findings support the need to further evaluate the potential allergenic proteins in microalgae including N. oculata such as immunoglobulin E (IgE) binding tests.

Citrin: a novel food allergen in citrus seeds and citrus-derived pectin that shows cross-reactivity with cashew and pistachio

BackgroundPatients exquisitely sensitive to cashew/pistachio are at risk for allergic reactions to citrus seeds and pectin. ObjectiveIn this study, we sought to evaluate whether pectin is contaminated with citrus seeds, to identify a culprit antigen in citrus seeds, and to assess for cross-reactivity among allergens in citrus seeds, citrus pectin, and cashew or pistachio. MethodsProteins from orange seed coats, orange seed endosperms, lemon seeds, grapefruit seeds, citrus pectin, apple pectin, and grapefruit pectin were extracted. Protein concentrations in all extracts were determined and visualized using sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis technique. Immunoglobulin E-binding capacity was determined with Western blot analyses and tandem mass spectrometry for the identification of the culprit allergen in citrus seeds and pectin. ResultsIn subjects with citrus seed, pectin, and cashew allergies, there was strong immunoglobulin E-reactivity to bands between 17 to 28 kDa and 28 to 38 kDa. The tandem mass spectrometry analysis of these bands indicated the presence of citrin as the culprit allergen. Citrin and Ana o 2 are both 11S globulins belonging to the cupin superfamily, and significant homology was found between these proteins. ConclusionCitrus pectin may be contaminated with citrus seeds. Citrin, a newly identified allergen in citrus seeds, seems to be the culprit antigen in citrus seeds and contaminated citrus pectin. Citrin is highly homologous with Ana o 2 in cashew and Pis v 2 in pistachio, suggesting potential for cross-reactivity and providing an explanation for co-allergenicity of cashew or pistachio, citrus seeds, and citrus pectin.

A new efficient sample pooling procedure for qualitative screening analysis. Application to the detection of salmonella spp and nut allergen by PCR

Foodborne pathogens and allergens are a major concern for public health that determines food safety policy, and their screening could be improved using pooled samples.The purpose of this paper is to propose a cost-effective and accurate pooling strategy for the unambiguous identification of foodborne pathogens and allergens, enabling laboratories to redouble testing capacity while saving time and making optimal use of resources.Although a variety of pooling algorithms have been used in different fields, the strategy suggested here is a logical analysis of sample pooling aimed at qualitative analytical screening problems. It involves, on the one hand, a design matrix to make the pooled samples, which is a supersaturated-based design, particularly, a half-fraction of a Plackett-Burman. On the other hand, a logical (non-algebraic) modeling of the problem, as well as a logical procedure for the identification of the original positive samples, is included.Regarding the efficiency of the proposal, it is higher than that of other pooling algorithms, with an expected number of tests per individual sample ranging between 0.10, for a prevalence below 1%, and 0.59, for a prevalence above 10%. In terms of accuracy, the pooling sensitivity reaches 0.9697 for a sensitivity of the analytical test about 0.99, while pooling specificity ranges from 0.9872 to 0.9999, provided that the sensitivity and specificity of the analytical test are equal to or greater than 0.90.This pooling strategy has been applied to the detection of salmonella spp and nut allergen with complete identification of the contaminated samples. Furthermore, based on the EU reported food samples contaminated with salmonella, a comprehensive comparison between individual sampling and the applied pooling strategy has been conducted. For the specific case of salmonella, detailed calculations have been made on the expected efficiency gains induced by this pooling methodology for different types of food samples monitored in the EU.

Identification of an immunodominant IgE epitope of Der f 40, a novel allergen of Dermatophagoides farinae

BackgroundHouse dust mites (HDMs), including Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) and Dermatophagoides farinae (Der f) species, represent a major source of inhalant allergens that induce IgE-mediated anaphylactic reactions. HDM allergen identification is important to the diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases. Here, we report the identification of a novel HDM allergen, which we suggest naming Der f 40, and its immunodominant IgE epitopes. MethodsThe recombinant protein Der f 40 was expressed using a pET prokaryotic expression system and purified with Ni-NTA resins. IgE binding activity was evaluated by IgE-western blot, dot-blot, and ELISA. Mast cell activation testing was performed to assess the cellular effects of IgE binding in mouse bone marrow derived mast cells (BMMCs) expressing human FcεRI. IgE binding assays were performed with truncated and hybrid Der f 40 protein molecules to find immunodominant IgE epitopes. ResultsA 106-amino acid (aa) recombinant Der f Group 40 protein (rDer f 40) was obtained (GenBank accession No. XP_046915420.1) as thiredoxin-like protein. Der f 40 was shown to bind IgE from HDM allergic serum in vitro (9.68%; 12/124 in IgE-ELISA), and shown to promote the release of β-hexosaminidase from BMMCs dose-dependently when administered with HDM allergic sera. The Der f Group 40 protein was named Der f 40 and listed in the World Health Organization and International Union of Immunological Societies (WHO/IUIS) Allergen Nomenclature Sub-committee. IgE binding assays with Der f 40-based truncated and hybrid proteins indicated that IgE binding epitopes are likely located in the C-terminal region and dependent on conformational structure. The 76–106-aa region of C-terminus was identified as an immunodominant IgE epitope of Der f 40. ConclusionA novel HDM allergen with robust IgE binding activity was identified and named Der f 40. An immunodominant IgE epitope of Der f 40 with conformational dependency was identified in the C-terminus (aa 76–106). These findings provide new information that may be useful in the development of diagnostic and therapeutic agents for HDM allergy.

Beyond ARIA: Will e-diaries replace retrospective questionnaires in measuring the severity of allergic rhinitis in clinical research and daily practice?

Retrospective questionnaires are used since decades to assess the severity and/or control of allergic diseases. Applications on smartphones have recently facilitated the use of prospective clinical diaries, based on questionnaires filled every day by the patient. Once limited to clinical trials, these e-diaries, based on validated disease control scores and visual analogue scales, permit a quantitative day-by-day measure free of recall bias. Given the advantages of this procedure, its use could be extended to the daily clinical practice. E-diaries may facilitate (1) a more precise identification of the culprit allergen in the diagnostic work-up of poly-sensitized patients, (2) the stratification of patients for treatment, (3) the follow-up of the patients under treatment for optimized shared decision-making, and (4) a careful assessment of preventive therapies. While a few apps are being used in scientific studies, consensus on their use in daily practice should be reached and guidelines for specialists should be elaborated by scientific associations.

In Silico Identification and Characterization of Potential Red Seaweed Allergens

Red seaweeds such as Kappaphycus alvarezii and Porphyra yezoensis have many applications, especially in the food industry, which suggests the need for knowing their potential allergenicity. In silico approaches can be used to determine if a protein is an existing allergen or has the ability to cross-react with one. In this study, 318 sequences for Kappaphycus alvarezii and 641 protein sequences for Porphyra yezoensis were screened for potential allergens using AlgPred 2.0 and AllergenOnline, followed by the FAO allergenicity test using Allermatch. Data from this were used to predict the B-cell epitopes using the IEDP prediction tool and T-cell epitopes using MHC2Pred and were modeled using SWISS-MODEL and PyMOL to highlight specific epitopes. These models were assessed for quality using Global Quality Model Estimate (GQME) scores, ERRAT scores, and VERIFY 3D. Results showed fourteen (14) potential red seaweed allergens, four (4) of which were found in Kappaphycus alvarezii and ten (10) in Porphyra yezoensis. Several proteins of red seaweeds shared structural similarities with species normally associated with food allergies, such as common hazel, Atlantic salmon, and shark catfish, as well as other types of allergens such as those in house-dust mites, that could potentially induce cross-reactivity. Additionally anticipated were specific B-cell and T-cell epitopes and their specific peptide sequences that were incorporated in the 3D models, which were created for further comparison with other molecular structures of recognized allergens. Almost all of the 3D models had a GQME score of above 0.7 and had a high ERRAT score for overall quality but some failed to pass the VERIFY 3D test. This study could serve as a preliminary yet robust approach to identifying allergenic proteins in red seaweed and narrowing down potential existing cross-reactive allergens from various species that could aid in future in vitro and in vivo allergenicity studies.

Does parental perception of food allergy correlate well with skin prick test? A prospective study

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Food allergy (FA) is being increasingly recognized in children. Correct identification of a food allergen gives the opportunity to eliminate the offending food, thus reducing allergy-associated symptoms. Ruling out FA allows parents to reintroduce the nutrient excluded based on suspicion only. The objective of the study was to find the association between “parental perception of food causing allergy” and “confirmation of the allergen by skin prick tests (SPTs)” in children. We describe the profile of FA in the Indian population. METHODS: In this prospective observational study, 47 children aged 4–12 years with suspected FA were subjected to SPT. We evaluated for the association between the “parental perception of foods causing allergy in their children” and the confirmation of allergen by SPT. RESULTS: Among the 47 children, in 20 (42.5%), FA was confirmed by SPT. Common allergens identified by SPT were shrimp, milk, egg, beef, peanut, and tuna. In our study, we had reasonable agreement (kappa > 0.6) between parental suspicion of FA and positive SPT: higher association was noted with the foods mutton, beef, and shrimp. CONCLUSION: In more than half of children suspected to have FA, SPT excluded the diagnosis. This helped the pediatrician and parents to reintroduce the food and avoid potential nutrient deficiencies.

Role of Small Molecule Ligands in IgE-Mediated Allergy.

A significant fraction of allergens bind small molecular ligands, and many of these compounds are classified as lipids. However, in most cases, we do not know the role that is played by the ligands in the allergic sensitization or allergic effector phases. More effort is dedicated toward identification of allergens' ligands. This resulted in identification of some lipidic compounds that can play active immunomodulatory roles or impact allergens' molecular and allergic properties. Four allergen families (lipocalins, NPC2, nsLTP, and PR-10) are among the best characterized in terms of their ligand-binding properties. Allergens from these four families are able to bind many chemically diverse molecules. These molecules can directly interact with human immune system and/or affect conformation and stability of allergens. While there is more data on the allergens and their small molecular ligands, we are just starting to understand their role in allergy.

Potential for Allergic Contact Dermatitis in Popular Hair Care Practices and Ingredients.

The incidence of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) due to personal care products is rising in parallel with increasing product availability and consumer interest. Hair products specifically represent a significant source of potential allergens, including preservatives, surfactants, emulsifiers, fragrances, adhesives, and dyes. ACD due to hair care products can present as dermatitis in the distinctive "rinse-off" distribution, involving the neck, eyelids, and lateral face in addition to the scalp. Herein, the authors review ingredients in hair care products that can cause ACD and practical tips for allergen identification.

Identification of Major and Cross-reactive Allergens of Local Freshwater Snail (Pila polita) and the Impact of Thermal and Non-thermal Food Processing on Allergen Stability.

Snail allergy is rare but can be fatal. Pila polita, a freshwater snail was considered as a popular exotic food particularly in tropical countries and consumed in processed forms. Thus, the purpose of this study was to identify the major and cross-reactive allergens of P. polita and determine the impact of food processing on the allergen stability. SDS-PAGE fractionated raw snail extract to approximately 24 protein bands, between 9 to 245 kDa. The prominent band at 33 kDa was detected in all raw and processed snail extracts. Immunoblotting tests of the raw extract demonstrated 19 IgE-binding proteins and four of them at 30, 35, 42 and 49 kDa were revealed as the major IgE-binding proteins of P. polita. MALDI-TOF identified the 49 kDa and 42 kDa major allergens as actin, while the 30 and 35 kDa major allergens were identified as tropomyosin. Immunoblotting revealed that the raw snail had more allergenic proteins than the processed snail. The degree of allergenicity in the decreasing order was: raw > brine pickled> boiled > roasted > fried > vinegar pickled. The presence of cross-reactivity between P. polita and the shellfish tested was exhibited, with either none, complete or partial inhibitions. Actin and tropomyosin were identified as the major and cross-reactive allergens of P. polita among local patients with snail allergy. Those major allergens are highly stable to high temperatures, acidic pH and high salt, which might played a crucial role in snail allergy in this country. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Updates and Recent Advances on Venom Immunotherapy.

Venom immunotherapy has been utilized to treat Hymenoptera venom allergy since the 1920s. Over the last century, significant advances in the fields of immunology and genetics have led to improvements in the practice of venom immunotherapy. This review encompasses recent advances in the use of venom immunotherapy to provide precise, patient-centered care. Research about the mechanism of action of venom immunotherapy continues to highlight the modification of both the innate and adaptive immune systems. Molecular techniques have allowed for the identification of specific venom allergens to improve the diagnostic accuracy and safety of venom immunotherapy. Research continues to support the safety of accelerated schedules which can impact the cost, adherence, and quality of life for patients receiving this treatment modality. Finally, significant advances have led to the elucidation of risk factors that place patients at risk for reactions during and after venom immunotherapy. Creation of risk profiles for venom-allergic patients can thus inform the process of immunotherapy in order to provide personalized and precise care. Significant progress in the use of venom immunotherapy makes the practice a dynamic and active field for continued research. Future research needs to build on these recent advances to continue to optimize and enhance this life-saving treatment.