Immuno-evasive tactics by schistosomes identify an effective allergy preventative

- Schistosoma mansoni appears to cleave CD23 to release a 15 kDa soluble (s) CD23 fragment (SG-sCD23).
- SG-sCD23 can prevent IgE from binding to its receptors and prevent acute allergy.
- A point mutation in the IgE-binding head, D258E, increased efficacy of SG-sCD23.
- SG-sCD23 may be an effective allergy treatment.
- Immunity to calpain may inhibit CD23 cleavage and improve protection against schistosomiasis.