Dust Mite Studies

Concise summaries of peer-reviewed clinical trials and scientific studies focused on house dust mite pathology, allergen production, and avoidance efficiency.

2010 non-IgE reactions from dust mites

A study that investigates non-IgE mediated immune responses to house dust mites, detailing how non-allergic pathways contribute to inflammation.

All about house dust mite droppings

Examines the critical role of the faecal pellet, including its size (10 to 40 microns) which determines its ability to penetrate deep into the human lung.

Bugs in the gut of the mite

A review of the research into the bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that inhabit the mite's gut, and how this relates to human contamination.

Der p23, a dangerous new allergen from house dust mites

Focuses on the 2013 discovery of Der p23, a major allergen derived from the peritrophic membrane (film) that covers the faecal droppings.

Eczema and the house dust mite (HDM)

Examines the link between HDM exposure and atopic dermatitis, emphasizing how mite enzymes directly damage the skin's protective barrier.

House dust mites as mange mites

Compares the house dust mite to its parasitic relative, the mange mite, and explores the retained parasitic-like functions that cause allergic disease.

House dust mite's formal classification

Details the taxonomic lineage of the house dust mite, clarifying its place in the Phylum Arthropoda (Class Arachnida) and its distinction from insects.

House dust mites - From dinosaurs to humans

An evolutionary review suggesting the house dust mite descended from a parasitic mite that lived on warm-blooded dinosaurs before becoming a scavenger.

How to discourage mite infestation indoors

Scientific guidance on environmental control, emphasizing humidity reduction (below 50% RH) and other practical avoidance measures.

Interesting mite species for study

A collection of fascinating facts about other mite species, focusing on unique parasitic relationships and strange evolutionary adaptations.

Lung cells in asthma - protectors or drivers of disease.

A review on the sentinel role of the airway epithelium in asthma, questioning current disease classification and proposing new therapies.

Mites - domestic, storage, and house dust mites

Classifies the different allergenic mite groups found indoors, including the characteristics and habitats of Pyroglyphidae and Storage Mites.

Ozone, photocopiers, asthma and the mite

Investigates how ozone, a gas produced by office equipment, acts as a lung irritant that can intensify allergic reactions to house dust mite allergens.

Skin prick testing for sensitisation and allergy

A simple guide to the clinical procedure of skin prick testing, including how it works, when it is used, and the interpretation of results.

Study a major cause of allergy in school

A five-step project guide for teachers and students to conduct an engaging study on house dust mite biology, ecology, and its health impact.

The house dust mite was once a parasitic-like animal

Explores the theory that the house dust mite evolved from a parasitic ancestor, explaining why it retained the aggressive, cell-damaging enzymes.

What is the allergy causing house dust mite

A review of the mite's fundamental biology: its diet (skin scales), lack of respiratory system, and the fact that its droppings are the primary allergen source.

Why study the major cause of allergy, the house dust mite?

Highlights the necessity of research by detailing the epidemic proportions and high financial and human health costs associated with allergic diseases.