A recent study from the University of Colorado Boulder reported that ultraviolet (UV) light at a wavelength of 222 nm can alter the structure of allergen proteins, thereby reducing allergic responses in humans. This finding offers a new approach to improving indoor air quality and alleviating allergy symptoms. The related results have been published in the journal ACS ES&T Air.

Root Cause of Allergies: Airborne Protein Particles

The study indicates that allergic reactions are triggered by protein particles suspended in the air. When these particles are inhaled, the immune system recognizes their three-dimensional structures and produces antibodies, which then initiate an allergic response.

Traditional Cleaning Methods Are Limited in Reducing Allergens

Conventional cleaning measures such as wiping, vacuuming, or air filtration can temporarily reduce indoor allergen levels but do not provide long-term relief. To address this limitation, researchers tested an alternative approach: modifying the structure of allergen proteins so that the immune system can no longer detect or recognize them as “invaders,” thereby mitigating allergic reactions.

222 nm UV Effectively Reduces Allergens

In the experiment, the research team introduced aerosols of allergens—including dust mites, pet dander, mold, and pollen—into a sealed chamber and exposed them to four 222 nm UV lamps. Results showed that in untreated air, antibodies tightly bound to the proteins, whereas in treated chambers many proteins no longer attracted antibodies. After just 30 minutes of exposure, allergen recognition decreased by 20% to 25%.

These findings indicate that 222 nm UV can modify the structure of allergen proteins, reducing their capacity to trigger immune responses and thereby lowering the risk of indoor allergies. The research team envisages the future development of portable devices that could be used in environments with high allergen exposure.

GMY: Professional Provider of 222 nm UV Solutions

GMY has been engaged in the field of lighting technology applications for more than two decades, focusing on the research and manufacture of UV light sources. As one of the participating organizations in China's National Key R&D Program project—Research and Development of Green Intelligent Disinfection Technologies and Equipment for Cold Chain Logistics and Human–Machine Coexistence Scenarios—GMY actively promotes innovation and application of 222 nm UV technology and is committed to providing users with safe and efficient 222 nm UV solutions.

Relying on its proprietary core technologies and accumulated experience, GMY can provide customized products and technical solutions according to customer requirements. The company has established a comprehensive product system covering core light source components, modules, and equipment, which can be widely applied in scenarios including air purification and space disinfection, water disinfection and purification, surface disinfection, and home health care.

GMY looks forward to collaborating with more partners to jointly explore further applications of 222 nm UV.