A research team jointly led by Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry (Sechenov University) and the Medical University of Vienna has announced that the world’s first recombinant vaccine for cat allergies will soon enter clinical trials in 2025. The breakthrough offers hope to millions of people who love cats but suffer from allergic reactions.
The study identifies a protein called “Feld1” in cats—primarily found in their saliva—as the main allergen. When cats groom themselves, Feld1 from their saliva adheres to their fur, triggering allergic responses in sensitive individuals. Globally, nearly 20% of people experience cat allergies, with symptoms ranging from sneezing, coughing, and chest tightness to shortness of breath and itchy eyes/skin.
Current treatments for cat allergies mainly rely on “allergen-specific immunotherapy,” which involves long-term repeated injections of allergen extracts to build tolerance. However, Alexander Karaulov, Head of the Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology at Sechenov University, notes drawbacks of existing vaccines, such as inconsistent allergen dosing, incomplete coverage of all allergy-causing proteins, the need for multiple injections, and potential side effects.
The new recombinant vaccine, developed at the genetic level, is synthesized from harmless proteins found in viruses or allergens. In rabbit trials, it effectively stimulated antibody production and reduced cat-induced allergic reactions by up to 85%. If clinical trials succeed, this vaccine could revolutionize life for cat allergy sufferers, allowing them to freely enjoy companionship with feline friends without discomfort.
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