#131 - What Is a BTK Inhibitor?

For decades, allergists have focused on blocking what happens outside the mast cell: histamine, IgE, and interleukins. But now, there’s a new way to stop allergic inflammation before it even starts: by targeting what happens inside the cell with BTK Inhibitors.

Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney are joined by Dr. Matthew Giannetti to unpack what BTK actually does and why inhibiting it represents an exciting breakthrough in allergy and immunology. Together, they explore how BTK inhibitors work, why this inside-the-cell approach is different from anything before, and what it could mean for people living with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU).

What the episode covers about BTK inhibitors:

• BTK explained: Bruton’s tyrosine kinase is a pivotal “last step” before mast-cell degranulation.
• How BTK inhibitors work: Blocking BTK can stop histamine release downstream of many outside triggers.
• The science: Why BTK binding is irreversible for each molecule and how the body “re-makes” BTK over time.
• Safety in brief: A look at petechiae (small pinpoint spots), what to monitor, and how shared decision-making guides treatment choices.
• The future of BTK inhibitors: Exploring their potential role in other allergic conditions.

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Novartis for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.