Enzymes and sensitization via skin exposure: A critical analysis

• Published in: Regulatory toxicology and pharmacology 2022-03, Vol.129, p.105112-105112, Article 105112
• Main Authors: Basketter, David A., Kimber, Ian
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Allergens - immunology; Cutaneous immune responses; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact - etiology; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact - immunology; Detergents - pharmacology; Enzymes; Enzymes - immunology; Food Hypersensitivity - etiology; Food Hypersensitivity - immunology; Humans; Hypersensitivity - etiology; Hypersensitivity - immunology; Molecular Weight; Respiratory System - immunology; Sensitization of the respiratory tract; Skin - immunology; Skin sensitization
• ISSN: 0273-2300; 1096-0295
• DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2021.105112

Some proteins, including enzymes, can induce allergic sensitization of various types, including allergic sensitization of the respiratory tract. There is now an increased understanding of the role that the skin plays in the development of IgE-mediated allergy and this prompts the question whether topical exposure to enzymes used widely in consumer cleaning products could result in allergic sensitization. Here, the evidence that proteins can interact with the skin immune system and the way they do so is reviewed, together with a consideration of the experience gained over decades of the use of enzymes in laundry and cleaning products. The conclusion drawn is that although transcutaneous sensitization to proteins can occur (typically through compromised skin) resulting in IgE antibody-mediated allergy, in practice such skin contact with enzymes used in laundry and cleaning products does not appear to pose a significant risk of allergic disease. Further, the evidence summarized in this publication support the view that proteins do not pose a risk of allergic contact dermatitis. •Enzymes are known respiratory allergens; what about allergic contact dermatitis (ACD)?•Increasingly, evidence shows that skin exposure is involved in food protein allergy.•Transcutaneous enzyme exposure can result in the induction of immediate allergy.•However, exposure to enzymes in household cleaning products does not trigger ACD.