New perspectives on the neuro-immune mechanisms of itch in allergic conjunctivitis
10.3980/j.issn.1672-5123.2026.7.16
- VernacularTitle:过敏性结膜炎瘙痒神经免疫机制研究进展新视角
- Author:
Yuhua MA
1
;
Lu ZHANG
1
;
Junyang PAN
1
;
Chunli WU
1
;
Dinghuan NIE
1
;
Yanting WANG
1
;
Ao PENG
1
;
Nan MA
1
Author Information
1. Department of Ophthalmology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710038, Shaanxi Province, China; Air Force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
allergic conjunctivitis;
itching;
neuroimmune interaction;
IL-33-ST2-CGRP signaling axis;
sensory nervous system
- From:
International Eye Science
2026;26(7):1203-1209
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Allergic conjunctivitis is a common ocular inflammatory disease, with intense itching being the most typical and distressing symptom for patients. In recent years, with the in-depth study of the interaction between the nervous and immune systems, significant progress has been made in understanding the mechanism of itching in allergic conjunctivitis. This review elaborates on the neurobiological basis of itching in allergic conjunctivitis, with a focus on the complex dialogue between immune cells and sensory neurons, particularly the core role of the IL-33-ST2-CGRP signaling axis in mediating itching. Additionally, this article introduces new findings in genetic susceptibility research, including the identification of susceptibility genes for allergic conjunctivitis through transcriptome-wide association studies. The sensory nervous system not only transmits itch signals but also actively participates in the formation of antigen channels related to conjunctival goblet cells, thereby regulating the local uptake of allergens and the initiation of the immune response. Moreover, targeted novel therapeutic strategies offer hope for patients with refractory allergic conjunctivitis. Exploring the molecular and cellular mechanisms of itching in allergic conjunctivitis will provide a theoretical basis for the development of more effective treatment methods.
