Researchers at Cytos Biotechnology have developed a “universal” allergy therapy that makes the immune system stop reacting to harmless allergens (substances that cause allergies).

In trials, the therapy–a series of shots–helped people allergic to house dust mites and cat dander.

An overactive immune system is thought to be the cause of most allergic reactions. The new therapy “distracts” the immune system by giving patients a molecular decoy (CYT003-QbG10) that makes the body behave as if it is under attack by bacteria. The increase in the immune system’s anti-microbial response reduces its allergic response.

Existing immunotherapies (desensitization therapies), which give patients tiny doses of the specific substance to which they are allergic, are time-consuming and cannot be given to all patients.