Potential of acupuncture for allergies

Griffith University will lead a new study investigating the impact of acupuncture on the human immune system and its effectiveness as an alternative treatment for allergies.

Pro Vice Chancellor for Health Professor Allan Cripps, an immunologist, said many Australians already use complementary and alternative therapies for the treatment of allergies.

“There is clear evidence that acupuncture can have a beneficial effect on allergic diseases such as hay fever. This study will help provide the scientific evidence for how acupuncture might reduce inflammation in the upper airways,” he said.

Professor Cripps has particular expertise in the area of mucosal immunology – the immune system’s response to infectious agents, allergens and environmental triggers at mucous membranes such as the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.

In other research, Professor Cripps and his research team are also investigating the role of nutritional supplements or probiotics to improve immune function in elite athletes.

The new study, funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), will expand knowledge of the processes to mediate the immune system response to allergen challenges.

Other Griffith health researchers to benefit from NHMRC funding include the director of the Griffith Institute for Health and Medical Research Professor Lyn Griffiths.

Professor Griffiths has been funded to undertake research to identify genes related to cardiovascular disease in the unique population of Norfolk Island.

The geographically isolated population, descendants of a small group of English sailors and Tahitian women who first settled in the area some two hundred years ago, is a rich resource for genetic studies.

“This grant strengthens our capacity to identify the genes that influence cardiovascular disease, the major cause of death in Australia and other Western nations.

“Ultimately the research will also lead to improved diagnostics and treatment of cardiovascular disease,” she said.

Associate Professor Rod Barrett, from the School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, will also lead NHMRC funded research aimed at reducing falls in older people.

Falls are the major cause of injury in the elderly, often resulting in lengthy and costly hospital stays.

The project will investigate the neuromuscular and biomechanical factors which influence balance in older people. The findings will also assist in developing exercise-based programs to improve stability and balance recovery in the elderly.

(Source: Griffith University: October 2008)