Berlin, July 29 (SANA) A team of German researchers has identified specific bacteria found in the intestines of cattle that may help explain why children raised on farms are less likely to develop asthma and allergies, according to a new study.
The research, reported on Wednesday by the German science website Wissenschaft.de, was conducted by scientists at Helmholtz Munich and LMU University Hospital Munich. The team, led by Markus Ege and supervised by Julia Pagani, analyzed samples from 1,018 children.
The study found that nine species of Gram-positive bacteria release airborne compounds that, when inhaled, activate two receptors in the respiratory system that help suppress the excessive immune response associated with allergic diseases.
According to the researchers, these bacteria accounted for about two-thirds of the protective effect against asthma and roughly half of the protection against hay fever and eczema. Other microorganisms, including fungi, did not show similar protective properties.
The findings suggest it may be possible to develop therapies that mimic the protective effects of farm environments, potentially reducing the risk of asthma and allergies among children living in urban areas without requiring direct exposure to livestock.
The study also adds to growing evidence that early-life exposure to certain microorganisms plays an important role in immune system development and may reduce the likelihood of allergic diseases later in life.
T.S /ABD
