Allergenic Properties and Their Impact on Human Health: House Dust Mites
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Abstract
House dust mites (HDMs) are microscopic arthropods recognized as a major source of indoor allergens worldwide, contributing substantially to allergic diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and atopic dermatitis. Their remarkable environmental adaptability facilitates persistence in domestic settings and continuous production of allergens, including cysteine protease (Der p1), chymotrypsin (Der p6), and tropomyosin (Der p10), as well as microbial components such as lipopolysaccharides and β-glucans, which enhance allergenicity and modulate immune responses. These allergens activate epithelial and immune cells, promoting type II inflammation that underlies the pathogenesis of allergic disorders. This review consolidates current knowledge of HDM biology, geographic distribution, allergen profiles, immune mechanisms, and clinical manifestations, while highlighting recent advances in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Literature was systematically reviewed from databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus using the keywords “house dust mite,” “allergens,” “inflammation,” and “treatment”. A comprehensive understanding of HDMs and their allergenic properties is critical for the development of more effective therapeutic strategies and the improvement of patients’ quality of life.
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