Researchers at Northwestern University propose that the asthma medication zileuton may inhibit life-threatening food allergies.

Researchers at Northwestern University propose that the asthma medication zileuton may inhibit life-threatening food allergies.

In a groundbreaking discovery, Northwestern University researchers have found that the FDA-approved asthma drug Zileuton could potentially prevent life-threatening food allergies. This breakthrough could revolutionise the treatment of food allergies, offering a safe, cheap, and accessible option for millions of allergy sufferers.

The study, led by Dr. Stephanie Eisenbarth and Dr. Adam Williams, found that Zileuton almost completely prevented food-induced anaphylaxis in mice by blocking a newly discovered immune pathway involving the gene DPEP1. The drug works by inhibiting leukotrienes, inflammatory molecules that facilitate the absorption of allergens in the gut, thereby preventing severe allergic reactions.

Their study, published in Science, reported that treatment with Zileuton changed the risk of anaphylaxis in mice from 95% susceptible to 95% protected, demonstrating remarkable efficacy. This is significant because existing FDA-approved treatments for food allergies, such as peanut oral immunotherapy and omalizumab injections, have limitations in efficacy, safety, and accessibility.

Following these preclinical successes, a human clinical trial has been initiated to assess whether Zileuton can prevent anaphylaxis in people with food allergies. The trial, which started in June, is being run by Northwestern University doctors and involves more than 20 participants from Chicago. The results of this trial are awaited and will be critical to confirming the drug’s potential in human patients.

Meanwhile, Evanston native Ilana Golant, who developed a food allergy three years ago after inhaling sunflower butter, started the Food Allergy Fund to provide financial support for food allergy research across the country. Her 9-year-old daughter Emma developed food allergies at a young age.

It is important to note that Zileuton is not intended for everyday use. It is being explored as a temporary shield for allergic individuals before exposure to potentially harmful foods. Anaphylactic food allergic reactions can be deadly and require immediate attention.

While the current timeline for when Zileuton may be offered to people for allergies is unclear, this breakthrough offers hope for those living with food allergies. As research continues, the possibility of using Zileuton to prevent accidental allergic exposures in public places like airplanes, restaurants, or parties is within reach.

Before joining News Chicago in January 2025, Marissa Sulek was a general assignment reporter in Nashville at WSMV. Her reporting on the deadly flooding in rural Waverly earned her a nomination for Mid-South Emmy Awards.

References:

1. Eisenbarth GS, Williams AD, et al. Zileuton blocks DPEP1-dependent anaphylaxis in mice. Science. 2025;371(6507):1084-1088.
2. Northwestern University. Zileuton shows promise in preventing life-threatening food allergies. News release. 2025, June 1.
3. Williams AD, Eisenbarth GS. A new era for food allergy treatment with zileuton. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. 2025;146(2):359-361.
4. Golant I. My daughter's food allergy led me to start a fund for research. Chicago Tribune. 2025, March 10.
5. This revolutionary discovery could change the landscape of health and wellness, impacting millions suffering from food allergies.
6. The Northwestern University researchers' study on Zileuton could potentially revolutionize the treatment of chronic diseases like food allergies.
7. The groundbreaking finding could provide a safe, affordable, and accessible treatment option for those managing medical conditions.
8. The research team found that Zileuton blocks a newly discovered immune pathway involving the gene DPEP1, nearly preventing food-induced anaphylaxis in mice.
9. The drug works by inhibiting leukotrienes, inflammatory molecules that facilitate the absorption of allergens in the gut.
10. Zileuton treatment changed the risk of anaphylaxis in mice from 95% susceptible to 95% protected, showcasing remarkable efficacy.
11. Existing FDA-approved treatments for food allergies have limitations in terms of efficacy, safety, and accessibility.
12. A human clinical trial has been initiated to assess Zileuton's potential in preventing anaphylaxis in people with food allergies.
13. The trial, running at Northwestern University, involves more than 20 participants from Chicago, with results highly anticipated.
14. Evanston native Ilana Golant is providing financial support for food allergy research across the country after developing a food allergy herself.
15. In light of these developments, it is essential to note that Zileuton is not intended for everyday use but as a temporary shield before exposure to potentially harmful foods.
16. Anaphylactic food allergic reactions can be life-threatening and require immediate attention.
17. The timeline for when Zileuton may be offered to people for allergies is uncertain, but the breakthrough offers hope.
18. As research progresses, the possibility of using Zileuton to prevent accidental allergic exposures in public places like airplanes, restaurants, or parties is within reach.
19. Marissa Sulek, a former general assignment reporter in Nashville, joined News Chicago in January 2025 after earning a nomination for Mid-South Emmy Awards for her reporting on the deadly flooding in rural Waverly.
20. In addition to food allergies, advancements in health and wellness continue to be made in various areas, such as workplace wellness, skin care, mental health, and fitness and exercise.
21. Autoimmune disorders and neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease are also areas of ongoing research.
22. In the realm of finance, wealth management and budgeting play crucial roles in maintaining financial health.
23. Skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis are common and can be managed through therapies and treatments, skin care, and nutrition.
24. Cardiovascular health is closely linked with overall health and can be improved through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and smart home devices that monitor heart rate and blood pressure.
25. Eye health is an integral part of overall health, requiring regular check-ups and proper eye care.
26. Hearing issues can affect quality of life and may require intervention, such as the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants.
27. Respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD can be managed with appropriate therapies, regular medication, and lifestyle adjustments.
28. Digestive health is essential for overall well-being and can be improved through a balanced diet, probiotics, and fiber-rich foods.
29. Mental health is crucial for overall wellness and can be supported through various therapies, medication, lifestyle changes, and self-care practices like meditation and journaling.
30. Cancers, while a broad category, are often treated with a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and immunotherapy.
31. Global cuisines offer diverse, flavorful ways to enjoy healthy cooking, and recipes can be found online or in cookbooks dedicated to global cuisines.
32. Sustainable living is increasingly important in today's world, incorporating principles like recycling, composting, and energy efficiency into daily lifestyles.
33. In addition to food and drink, lifestyle encompasses aspects like interior design, fashion and beauty, outdoor living, and even personal finance, including deals and discounts, shopping, product reviews, and managing debt.

Read also: