Scientists may have found a cure for peanut allergy

Researchers said the results showed that they were able to modify the allergic response to peanut,  so that the immune system produces protective responses rather than a harmful response to the peanut protein.

The Melbourne-based study saw an 82 per cent success rate after a group of children were given probiotics as well as peanut protein over the course of 18 months.

The 28 children, aged one to ten, were given peanut flour in increasing doses, and a regular amount of probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus, equivalent to 20kg of yoghurt. By the end of the trial at the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, 23 of them were able to include products made from peanuts in their diet.

Another group of the same number of children, which was administered placebo treatment, only saw one successful patient.

Lead researcher Professor Mimi Tang said the study results are extremely exciting as they could potentially provide an effective treatment for food allergy.

She also warned against trying the treatment at home, ‘In the study the combined delivery of probiotic and oral immunotherapy was a safe and effective treatment for peanut allergy; however it is important to point out that this treatment must be only be given under close medical supervision as we are giving peanut to children who are allergic to peanut, and children did have allergic reactions.’

‘Nevertheless, the likelihood of success was high - if nine children were given probiotic and peanut therapy, seven would benefit.’

Rates of peanut allergies have increased in the past two decades, especially in developed countries. The condition is usually lifelong and is the most common cause of fatality due to food-induced anaphylaxis.

The potentially fatal condition affects half a million people in the UK.

Further research is now required to confirm whether patients can still tolerate peanut years after the study has finished.

Last year, a clinical trial at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge proved successful after giving children with the allergy daily doses of the nut protein.