Peripheral tolerance is a mechanism by which the immune system prevents reactions
against self and other harmless antigens (Ags), such as food allergens. A reduction in
peripheral tolerance might lead to unwanted immune responses toward food allergens, the
result being type I hypersensitivity reactions. Type I hypersensitivity is the most acute form of
allergy; it is mediated by antigenspecific IgE and leads to clinical symptoms such as allergic
rhinitis, asthma, and systemic anaphylaxis. Antigen-specific IgE production is induced by …