• To describe and understand the types of molecules that act as allergens.

Define allergy

disease following a response by the immune system to an otherwise innocuous (causes no harm) antigen.

allergies are caused by hypersensitivity reactions that occur due to exposure of antigens which are usually harmless to the average person who has no allergy. there are 4 types of hypersensitivity reactions, all explained in detail within the hypersensitivity lecture LOs.

antigens that will provoke a hypersensitivity reaction must have certain components to it

Allergens are foreign proteins or glycoproteins that are the target of IgE antibody responses in humans

what does IL-4 cause to occur - amplify Th2 response (Helper T-cells)

• To understand how the route of delivery of allergen influences the symptoms.