Although several previous studies have linked house dust mites and their droppings to attacks of eczema and asthma, the current study provides an explanation as to how it happens.
Researchers traced the cause of allergies to an enzyme present in mites and their feces. To investigate the scientists dabbed hairless mice with solution containing the mite enzyme and observed that the rodents soon suffered water loss on their skin.
They then dabbed the mice with riboflavin - or vitamin B2 - which is well known substitute for allergens and irritants in the environment.
"We observed in the mice transepidermal water loss, which is an indication of disruption of the skin barrier. We also observed the penetration of riboflavin into the skin," Takai said in an interview with Reuters.
Takai said the finding provides an explanation for skin-related allergies in humans and he hopes dermatologists would investigate more closely into the role of the dust mite.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), some 300 million people worldwide were affected by asthma in 2005, killing 255,000 of them. The death figure is expected to increase by 20 percent in 10 years' time if urgent action if not taken.
