- Study involved nearly 280,000 individuals of European ancestry.
- A genetic variant near the IL7R gene linked to increased eczema risk, but only in individuals not exposed to dogs during infancy.
- Exposure to dog allergens appeared to activate protective immune responses in genetically susceptible individuals.
- Interactions with other environmental factors, such as cat ownership and tobacco smoke, were inconsistent.
- Early-life exposures, particularly dog ownership, may modify genetic risk for eczema through skin immune mechanisms.
Source: Allergy
