U. to conduct shrimp-allergy study

University of Utah medical researchers are looking for 50 people who are allergic to shrimp for a study aimed at creating a vaccine.

Funded by the National Institutes of Health, the study aimed at helping those who can't eat the small shell fish is led by Dr. Gerald J. Gleich, research professor of dermatology and an allergy and immunology specialist at the U. He wants to see if there is more than one type of sensitivity to shrimp and then test whether that sensitivity can be reduced by vaccination with small pieces of the shrimp protein.

Recent studies suggest that vaccination with small pieces of the proteins that cause allergies to cats and to bee venom can lessen sensitivity, reducing symptoms. Gleich is seeking a similar result for shrimp allergies.

Study participants will be given skin and blood tests to check for sensitivity to shrimp and related foods, such as crab and lobster. Participants will receive compensation.

Those interested in the study can call 801-581-6465 for more information.