Early interactions with dogs can reduce genetic predisposition to eczema in children. This is the conclusion reached by researchers at the University of Edinburgh, who published the results of a large analysis in the journal Allergy.

The scientists analyzed data from more than 25,000 people from 16 European studies to understand how 24 gene variants associated with eczema interact with 18 early environmental factors—including breastfeeding, older siblings, smoking, antibiotics, pets, and others. Among these, 14 significant interactions were identified. Particular attention was paid to the gene responsible for the production of the interleukin-7 receptor, a molecule involved in regulating the immune system.

It turned out that in children with a certain form of this gene, contact with a dog in early childhood reduces inflammatory activity in the skin and, accordingly, the risk of developing eczema. Laboratory models confirmed that the effect on this section of DNA is suppressed precisely when the dog is in the house. The authors emphasize that this is the first study to explain the presumed protective effect of dogs at the molecular level. Although further work is needed to confirm the results, the study opens up new possibilities in the prevention of allergic diseases. | BGNES