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Meta-analysis of IgE-binding allergen epitopes. Clin Immunol 2014; 153:31-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2014.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Jensen-Jarolim E. Happy 25th birthday, Bet v 1! World Allergy Organ J 2014; 7:14. [PMID: 24982698 PMCID: PMC4068080 DOI: 10.1186/1939-4551-7-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Erika Jensen-Jarolim
- Comparative Medicine, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University Vienna and University Vienna, Waehringer G. 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria ; Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Waehringer G. 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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53
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Reduction of the number of major representative allergens: from clinical testing to 3-dimensional structures. Mediators Inflamm 2014; 2014:291618. [PMID: 24778467 PMCID: PMC3980986 DOI: 10.1155/2014/291618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Vast amounts of allergen sequence data have been accumulated, thus complicating the identification of specific allergenic proteins when performing diagnostic allergy tests and immunotherapy. This study aims to rank the importance/potency of the allergens so as to logically reduce the number of allergens and/or allergenic sources. Meta-analysis of 62 allergenic sources used for intradermal testing on 3,335 allergic patients demonstrated that in southern China, mite, sesame, spiny amaranth, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and house dust account for 88.0% to 100% of the observed positive reactions to the 62 types of allergenic sources tested. The Kolmogorov-Smironov Test results of the website-obtained allergen data and allergen family featured peptides suggested that allergen research in laboratories worldwide has been conducted in parallel on many of the same species. The major allergens were reduced to 21 representative allergens, which were further divided into seven structural classes, each of which contains similar structural components. This study therefore has condensed numerous allergenic sources and major allergens into fewer major representative ones, thus allowing for the use of a smaller number of allergens when conducting comprehensive allergen testing and immunotherapy treatments.
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Lupinek C, Wollmann E, Baar A, Banerjee S, Breiteneder H, Broecker BM, Bublin M, Curin M, Flicker S, Garmatiuk T, Hochwallner H, Mittermann I, Pahr S, Resch Y, Roux KH, Srinivasan B, Stentzel S, Vrtala S, Willison LN, Wickman M, Lødrup-Carlsen KC, Antó JM, Bousquet J, Bachert C, Ebner D, Schlederer T, Harwanegg C, Valenta R. Advances in allergen-microarray technology for diagnosis and monitoring of allergy: the MeDALL allergen-chip. Methods 2014; 66:106-19. [PMID: 24161540 PMCID: PMC4687054 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2013.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2013] [Revised: 10/07/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Allergy diagnosis based on purified allergen molecules provides detailed information regarding the individual sensitization profile of allergic patients, allows monitoring of the development of allergic disease and of the effect of therapies on the immune response to individual allergen molecules. Allergen microarrays contain a large variety of allergen molecules and thus allow the simultaneous detection of allergic patients' antibody reactivity profiles towards each of the allergen molecules with only minute amounts of serum. In this article we summarize recent progress in the field of allergen microarray technology and introduce the MeDALL allergen-chip which has been developed for the specific and sensitive monitoring of IgE and IgG reactivity profiles towards more than 170 allergen molecules in sera collected in European birth cohorts. MeDALL is a European research program in which allergen microarray technology is used for the monitoring of the development of allergic disease in childhood, to draw a geographic map of the recognition of clinically relevant allergens in different populations and to establish reactivity profiles which are associated with and predict certain disease manifestations. We describe technical advances of the MeDALL allergen-chip regarding specificity, sensitivity and its ability to deliver test results which are close to in vivo reactivity. In addition, the usefulness and numerous advantages of allergen microarrays for allergy research, refined allergy diagnosis, monitoring of disease, of the effects of therapies, for improving the prescription of specific immunotherapy and for prevention are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Lupinek
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Eva Wollmann
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexandra Baar
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Srinita Banerjee
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Heimo Breiteneder
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Merima Bublin
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Mirela Curin
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Sabine Flicker
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Tetiana Garmatiuk
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Heidrun Hochwallner
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Irene Mittermann
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandra Pahr
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Yvonne Resch
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Kenneth H Roux
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Bharani Srinivasan
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Susanne Vrtala
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Leanna N Willison
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Magnus Wickman
- Sachs' Children's Hospital, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden; Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Josep Maria Antó
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), IMIM (Hospital del Mar Research Institute), Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut, CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jean Bousquet
- University Hospital of Montpellier, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, Montpellier, INSERM 1018, Villejuif, France
| | - Claus Bachert
- Upper Airways Research Laboratory, University Hospital Ghent, Belgium
| | - Daniel Ebner
- Phadia Multiplexing, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Rudolf Valenta
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria.
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Focke-Tejkl M, Campana R, Reininger R, Lupinek C, Blatt K, Valent P, Pavkov-Keller T, Keller W, Valenta R. Dissection of the IgE and T-cell recognition of the major group 5 grass pollen allergen Phl p 5. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2014; 133:836-45.e11. [PMID: 24182774 PMCID: PMC6624141 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2013.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Revised: 08/08/2013] [Accepted: 08/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The major timothy grass pollen allergen Phl p 5 belongs to the most potent allergens involved in hay fever and asthma. OBJECTIVE This study characterized immune-dominant IgE- and T-cell-recognition sites of Phl p 5. METHODS Seven peptides, P1 to P7 with a length of 31 to 38 amino acids that spanned the Phl p 5 sequence, were synthesized, characterized by circular dichroism spectroscopy, and tested for IgE reactivity, basophil activation, and T-cell reactivity. Carrier-bound peptides were studied for their ability to induce IgG antibodies in rabbits which recognize Phl p 5 or cross-reactive allergens from different grass species. Peptide-specific antibodies were tested for the capability to inhibit IgE reactivity to Phl p 5 and allergen-induced basophil activation of patients with allergy. RESULTS The peptides exhibited no secondary structure and showed no IgE reactivity or relevant allergenic activity, indicating that Phl p 5 IgE epitopes are conformational. Except for P3, peptide-specific IgG antibodies blocked IgE binding to Phl p 5 of patients with allergy and cross-reacted with temperate grasses. IgE inhibition experiments and molecular modeling identified several clustered conformational IgE epitopes on the N- as well as C-terminal domain of Phl p 5. P4, which stimulated the strongest T-cell and cytokine responses in patients, was not part of the major IgE-reactive regions. CONCLUSION Our study shows an interesting dissociation of the major IgE- and T-cell-reactive domains in Phl p 5 which provides a basis for the development of novel forms of immunotherapy that selectively target IgE or T-cell responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarete Focke-Tejkl
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center of Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Raffaela Campana
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center of Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Renate Reininger
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian Lupinek
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center of Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina Blatt
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Valent
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Hematology and Hemostaseology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tea Pavkov-Keller
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Walter Keller
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Rudolf Valenta
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center of Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Gepp B, Lengger N, Bublin M, Hemmer W, Breiteneder H, Radauer C. Chimeras of Bet v 1 and Api g 1 reveal heterogeneous IgE responses in patients with birch pollen allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2014; 134:188-94. [PMID: 24529686 PMCID: PMC4085476 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2013.12.1073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Revised: 12/03/2013] [Accepted: 12/19/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Characterization of IgE-binding epitopes of allergens and determination of their patient-specific relevance is crucial for the diagnosis and treatment of allergy. OBJECTIVE We sought to assess the contribution of specific surface areas of the major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1.0101 to binding IgE of individual patients. METHODS Four distinct areas of Bet v 1 representing in total 81% of its surface were grafted onto the scaffold of its homolog, Api g 1.0101, to yield the chimeras Api-Bet-1 to Api-Bet-4. The chimeras were expressed in Escherichia coli and purified. IgE binding of 64 sera from Bet v 1-sensitized subjects with birch pollen allergy was determined by using direct ELISA. Specificity was assessed by means of inhibition ELISA. RESULTS rApi g 1.0101, Api-Bet-1, Api-Bet-2, Api-Bet-3, and Api-Bet-4 bound IgE from 44%, 89%, 80%, 78%, and 48% of the patients, respectively. By comparing the amount of IgE binding to the chimeras and to rApi g 1.0101, 81%, 70%, 75%, and 45% of the patients showed significantly enhanced IgE binding to Api-Bet-1, Api-Bet-2, Api-Bet-3, and Api-Bet-4, respectively. The minority (8%) of the sera revealed enhanced IgE binding exclusively to a single chimera, whereas 31% showed increased IgE binding to all 4 chimeras compared with rApi g 1.0101. The chimeras inhibited up to 70% of IgE binding to rBet v 1.0101, confirming the specific IgE recognition of the grafted regions. CONCLUSION The Bet v 1-specific IgE response is polyclonal, and epitopes are spread across the entire Bet v 1 surface. Furthermore, the IgE recognition profile of Bet v 1 is highly patient specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Gepp
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nina Lengger
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Merima Bublin
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Heimo Breiteneder
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Christian Radauer
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Gadermaier E, Levin M, Flicker S, Ohlin M. The human IgE repertoire. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2013; 163:77-91. [PMID: 24296690 DOI: 10.1159/000355947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
IgE is a key mediator in allergic diseases. However, in strong contrast to other antibody isotypes, many details of the composition of the human IgE repertoire are poorly defined. The low levels of human IgE in the circulation and the rarity of IgE-producing B cells are important reasons for this lack of knowledge. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on these repertoires both in terms of their complexity and activity, i.e. knowledge which despite the difficulties encountered when studying the molecular details of human IgE has been acquired in recent years. We also take a look at likely future developments, for instance through improvements in sequencing technology and methodology that allow the isolation of additional allergen-specific human antibodies mimicking IgE, as this certainly will support our understanding of human IgE in the context of human disease in the years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Gadermaier
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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58
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Kofler S, Ackaert C, Samonig M, Asam C, Briza P, Horejs-Hoeck J, Cabrele C, Ferreira F, Duschl A, Huber C, Brandstetter H. Stabilization of the dimeric birch pollen allergen Bet v 1 impacts its immunological properties. J Biol Chem 2013; 289:540-51. [PMID: 24253036 PMCID: PMC3879576 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.518795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Many allergens share several biophysical characteristics, including the capability to undergo oligomerization. The dimerization mechanism in Bet v 1 and its allergenic properties are so far poorly understood. Here, we report crystal structures of dimeric Bet v 1, revealing a noncanonical incorporation of cysteine at position 5 instead of genetically encoded tyrosine. Cysteine polysulfide bridging stabilized different dimeric assemblies, depending on the polysulfide linker length. These dimers represent quaternary arrangements that are frequently observed in related proteins, reflecting their prevalence in unmodified Bet v 1. These conclusions were corroborated by characteristic immunologic properties of monomeric and dimeric allergen variants. Hereby, residue 5 could be identified as an allergenic hot spot in Bet v 1. The presented results refine fundamental principles in protein chemistry and emphasize the importance of protein modifications in understanding the molecular basis of allergenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Kofler
- From the Structural Biology Group, Department of Molecular Biology
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Subbarayal B, Schiller D, Möbs C, de Jong NW, Ebner C, Reider N, Bartel D, Lidholm J, Pfützner W, Gerth van Wijk R, Vieths S, Bohle B. Kinetics, cross-reactivity, and specificity of Bet v 1-specific IgG4 antibodies induced by immunotherapy with birch pollen. Allergy 2013; 68:1377-86. [PMID: 24053565 DOI: 10.1111/all.12236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND IgE antibodies specific for the major birch pollen allergen frequently cross-react with Bet v 1 homologous food proteins, for example Cor a 1 in hazelnut and Mal d 1 in apple. Specific immunotherapy with birch pollen (BP-SIT) induces IgG4 antibodies that inhibit IgE binding to Bet v 1. However, information on cross-reactivity of BP-SIT-induced Bet v 1-specific IgG4 antibodies with food allergens is limited. In this study, we investigated the kinetics of production, cross-reactivity, and IgE-blocking activity of Bet v 1-specific IgG4 antibodies emerging during conventional BP-SIT and whether IgG4-epitopes overlapped with IgE epitopes. METHODS IgE and IgG4 levels specific for Bet v 1, Mal d 1, and Cor a 1 were determined in 42 birch pollen-allergic patients before and during BP-SIT. Inhibition of IgE binding was studied by IgE-facilitated antigen-binding assays and basophil activation tests. Furthermore, inhibition of IgE-mediated activation of food allergen-reactive Bet v 1-specific T-cell lines was assessed. Competitive immunoscreening of phage-displayed peptides was applied to select mimotopes recognized by IgE and IgG4 antibodies, respectively. The resulting mimotopes were mapped on the surface of the 3D structure of the allergens using a computer-based algorithm. RESULTS BP-SIT significantly increased Bet v 1- and food allergen-reactive IgG4 antibodies. In parallel, allergen-specific IgE levels decreased significantly. Sera containing food allergen-reactive IgG4 antibodies inhibited IgE binding, basophil activation, and IgE-mediated food allergen-induced T-cell proliferation. Predicted IgE and IgG4 epitopes on all allergens showed high overlap. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that BP-SIT may induce Bet v 1-specific IgG4 antibodies that cross-react with related food allergens and inhibit IgE binding by epitope competition.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. Subbarayal
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research and Christian Doppler Laboratory for Immunomodulation; Medical University of Vienna; Vienna Austria
| | - D. Schiller
- Division of Allergology; Paul-Ehrlich-Institut; Langen Germany
| | - C. Möbs
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology; Philipps University Marburg; Marburg Germany
| | - N. W. de Jong
- Section of Allergology; Department of Internal Medicine; Erasmus Medical Center; Rotterdam the Netherlands
| | - C. Ebner
- Allergy Clinic Reumannplatz; Vienna Austria
| | - N. Reider
- Department of Dermatology; University Clinic Innsbruck; Innsbruck Austria
| | - D. Bartel
- Division of Allergology; Paul-Ehrlich-Institut; Langen Germany
| | - J. Lidholm
- Thermo Fisher Scientific; Uppsala Sweden
| | - W. Pfützner
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology; Philipps University Marburg; Marburg Germany
| | - R. Gerth van Wijk
- Section of Allergology; Department of Internal Medicine; Erasmus Medical Center; Rotterdam the Netherlands
| | - S. Vieths
- Division of Allergology; Paul-Ehrlich-Institut; Langen Germany
| | - B. Bohle
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research and Christian Doppler Laboratory for Immunomodulation; Medical University of Vienna; Vienna Austria
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Iraola V, Gallego MT, Taulés M, Carnés J. Measurement of immunoglobulin E interaction with allergen extracts by surface plasmon resonance biosensor analysis. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2013; 111:228-9. [PMID: 23987206 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2013.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Depigmented allergoids reveal new epitopes with capacity to induce IgG blocking antibodies. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:284615. [PMID: 24222901 PMCID: PMC3816019 DOI: 10.1155/2013/284615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2013] [Revised: 08/01/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Background. The synthesis of allergen-specific blocking IgGs that interact with IgE after allergen immunotherapy (SIT) has been related to clinical efficacy. The objectives were to investigate the epitope specificity of IgG-antibodies induced by depigmented-polymerized (Dpg-Pol) allergoids and unmodified allergen extracts, and examine IgE-blocking activity of induced IgG-antibodies. Methods. Rabbits were immunized with native and Dpg-Pol extracts of birch pollen, and serum samples were obtained. Recognition of linear IgG-epitopes of Bet v 1 and Bet v 2 and the capacity of these IgG-antibodies to block binding of human-IgE was determined. Results. Serum from rabbits immunized with native extracts recognised 11 linear epitopes from Bet v 1, while that from Dpg-Pol-immunized animals recognised 8. For Bet v 2, 8 epitopes were recognized by IgG from native immunized animals, and 9 from Dpg-Pol immunized one. Dpg-Pol and native immunized serum did not always recognise the same epitopes, but specific-IgG from both could block human-IgE binding sites for native extract. Conclusions. Depigmented-polymerized birch extract stimulates the synthesis of specific IgG-antibodies which recognize common but also novel epitopes compared with native extracts. IgG-antibodies induced by Dpg-Pol effectively inhibit human-IgE binding to allergens which may be part of the mechanism of action of SIT.
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Selb R, Eckl-Dorna J, Vrtala S, Valenta R, Niederberger V. An assay that may predict the development of IgG enhancing allergen-specific IgE binding during birch immunotherapy. Allergy 2013; 68:1199-202. [PMID: 23998344 DOI: 10.1111/all.12204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been shown that birch pollen immunotherapy can induce IgG antibodies which enhance IgE binding to Bet v 1. We aimed to develop a serological assay to predict the development of antibodies which enhance IgE binding to Bet v 1 during immunotherapy. METHODS In 18 patients treated by Bet v 1-fragment-specific immunotherapy, the effects of IgG antibodies specific for the fragments on the binding of IgE antibodies to Bet v 1 were measured by ELISA. Blocking and possible enhancing effects on IgE binding were compared with skin sensitivity to Bet v 1 after treatment. RESULTS We found that fragment-specific IgG enhanced IgE binding to Bet v 1 in two patients who also showed an increase of skin sensitivity to Bet v 1. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that it may be possible to develop serological tests which predict the induction of unfavourable IgG antibodies enhancing the binding of IgE to Bet v 1 during immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Selb
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology; Medical University of Vienna; Vienna; Austria
| | - J. Eckl-Dorna
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology; Medical University of Vienna; Vienna; Austria
| | - S. Vrtala
- Divison of Immunopathology; Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research; Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology; Medical University of Vienna; Vienna; Austria
| | - R. Valenta
- Divison of Immunopathology; Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research; Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology; Medical University of Vienna; Vienna; Austria
| | - V. Niederberger
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology; Medical University of Vienna; Vienna; Austria
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Tai HY, Zhou JK, Chou H, Tam MF, Chen YS, Sheu SY, Shen HD. Epitope mapping and in silico characterization of interactions between Der p 7 allergen and MoAb WH9. PLoS One 2013; 8:e71269. [PMID: 23940735 PMCID: PMC3734125 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0071269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Der p 7 is an important house dust mite allergen. However, antigenic determinants of Der p 7 are largely unknown. The purpose of this study is to analyze the determinants of Der p 7 and determine the structural basis of interactions between Der p 7 and WH9, an IgE-binding inhibition mouse monoclonal antibody (MoAb). IgE and WH9-reactive determinant(s) was identified by immunoblot using allergen mutants. A 3-D binary complex structure of Der p 7 and WH9 was simulated with homology modeling and docking methods. Our results obtained showed that among the five Der p 7 mutants (S156A, I157A, L158A, D159A, P160A), serum no. 1045 with IgE-binding against Der p 7 exhibited a reduced IgE immunoblot reactivity against Der p 7 L158A and D159A mutants. WH9 showed reduced immunoblot reactivity against S156A, L158A, D159A and P160A and the observation was confirmed by immunoblot inhibition. The WH9-binding determinant on Der p 7 containing S156, L158, D159 and P160 assumes a loop-like structure. The structural model of the Der p 7-WH9 complex suggests residues S156, I157, L158, D159 and P160 of Der p 7 contribute to WH9 binding via potential hydrogen bonds, electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. In conclusion, MoAb WH9 interacts with critical residues L158 and D159 of Der p 7 and inhibits IgE-binding to Der p 7. Results obtained advance our understanding on molecular and structural bases of the antigenicity of Der p 7, its interactions with MoAb WH9 and facilitate the design of safer immunotherapy of human atopic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Yun Tai
- Department of Medical Research and Education, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Jia-Kai Zhou
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Hong Chou
- Department of Medical Research and Education, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Ming F. Tam
- Department of Biological Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Yu-Sen Chen
- Department of Medical Research and Education, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Sheh-Yi Sheu
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Horng-Der Shen
- Department of Medical Research and Education, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- * E-mail:
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Marth K, Breyer I, Focke-Tejkl M, Blatt K, Shamji MH, Layhadi J, Gieras A, Swoboda I, Zafred D, Keller W, Valent P, Durham SR, Valenta R. A nonallergenic birch pollen allergy vaccine consisting of hepatitis PreS-fused Bet v 1 peptides focuses blocking IgG toward IgE epitopes and shifts immune responses to a tolerogenic and Th1 phenotype. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 190:3068-78. [PMID: 23440415 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1202441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Allergen-specific immunotherapy is the only allergen-specific and disease-modifying treatment for allergy. The construction and characterization of a vaccine for birch pollen allergy is reported. Two nonallergenic peptides, PA and PB, derived from the IgE-reactive areas of the major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1 were fused to the hepatitis B surface protein, PreS, in four recombinant fusion proteins containing different numbers and combinations of the peptides. Fusion proteins expressed in Escherichia coli and purified to homogeneity showed a lack of IgE reactivity and allergenic activity when tested with sera and basophils from patients allergic to birch pollen. Compared to Bet v 1 allergen, peptides PA and PB showed reduced T cell activation in PBMCs from allergic patients, whereas PreS fusion proteins induced less IL-5 and more IL-10 and IFN-γ. Immunization of rabbits with the fusion proteins, in particular with a PreS fusion protein 2PAPB-PreS, containing two copies of each peptide, induced high levels of IgG Abs against the major IgE-reactive site on Bet v 1 and related allergens. These IgG Abs inhibited allergic patients' IgE binding to Bet v 1 better than did IgG induced by immunization with complete Bet v 1. Furthermore, 2PAPB-PreS-induced IgG inhibited Bet v 1-induced basophil activation in allergic patients and CD23-facilitated allergen presentation. Our study exemplifies novel beneficial features for a PreS carrier-based peptide vaccine for birch pollen, which, in addition to the established reduction in allergenic activity, include the enhanced focusing of blocking Ab responses toward IgE epitopes, immunomodulatory activity, and reduction of CD23-facilitated allergen presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Marth
- Christian Doppler Laboratory of Allergy Research, Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center of Pathophysiology, Infectiology, and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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65
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Twaroch TE, Focke M, Fleischmann K, Balic N, Lupinek C, Blatt K, Ferrara R, Mari A, Ebner C, Valent P, Spitzauer S, Swoboda I, Valenta R. Carrier-bound Alt a 1 peptides without allergenic activity for vaccination against Alternaria alternata allergy. Clin Exp Allergy 2013; 42:966-75. [PMID: 22909168 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2012.03996.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mould Alternaria alternata is a major elicitor of allergic asthma. Diagnosis and specific immunotherapy (SIT) of Alternaria allergy are often limited by the insufficient quality of natural mould extracts. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether recombinant Alt a 1 can be used for reliable diagnosis of Alternaria alternata allergy and to develop a safe, non-allergenic vaccine for SIT of Alternaria allergy. METHODS The qualitative sensitization profile of 80 Alternaria-allergic patients from Austria and Italy was investigated using an allergen micro-array and the amount of Alternaria-specific IgE directed to rAlt a 1 was quantified by ImmunoCAP measurements. Peptides spanning regions of predicted high surface accessibility of Alt a 1 were synthesized and tested for IgE reactivity and allergenic activity, using sera and basophils from allergic patients. Carrier-bound peptides were studied for their ability to induce IgG antibodies in rabbits which recognize Alt a 1 and inhibit allergic patients' IgE reactivity to Alt a 1. RESULTS rAlt a 1 allowed diagnosis of Alternaria allergy in all tested patients, bound the vast majority (i.e. >95%) of Alternaria-specific IgE and elicited basophil activation already at a concentration of 0.1 ng/mL. Four non-allergenic peptides were synthesized which, after coupling to the carrier protein keyhole limpet hemocyanin, induced Alt a 1-specific IgG and inhibited allergic patients' IgE binding to Alt a 1. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE rAlt a 1 is a highly allergenic molecule allowing sensitive diagnosis of Alternaria allergy. Carrier-bound non-allergenic Alt a 1 peptides are candidates for safe SIT of Alternaria allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T E Twaroch
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Allergy Research, Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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66
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Hecker J, Diethers A, Schulz D, Sabri A, Plum M, Michel Y, Mempel M, Ollert M, Jakob T, Blank S, Braren I, Spillner E. An IgE epitope of Bet v 1 and fagales PR10 proteins as defined by a human monoclonal IgE. Allergy 2012; 67:1530-7. [PMID: 23066955 DOI: 10.1111/all.12045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Analyses of the molecular basis underlying allergenicity and allergen cross-reactivity, as well as improvement of allergy diagnostics and therapeutics, are hampered by the lack of human monoclonal IgE antibodies and knowledge about their epitopes. Here, we addressed the consecutive generation and epitope delineation of a human monoclonal IgE against the prototypic allergen Bet v 1. METHODS Phage-display scFv hybrid libraries of allergic donor-derived VH epsilon and synthetic VL were established from 107 mononuclear cells. An obtained scFv was converted into human immunoglobulin formats including IgE. Using variants of Bet v 1, the epitope of the antibody was mapped and extrapolated to other PR10 proteins. RESULTS The obtained antibodies exhibited pronounced reactivity with Bet v 1, but were not reactive with the homologous PR10 protein Mal d 1. The epitope as defined by the IgE paratope and a set of chimeric Bet v 1 fusion proteins and fragments could be assigned to a C-terminal helix-structured motif comprised by amino acid residues 132-154, including the critical residue E149. Grafting this motif re-established the reactivity of the per se nonreactive Mal d 1 framework. Cross-reactivities predicted by primary structure analyses of different isoforms and PR10 proteins were verified by allergen chip-based analyses. CONCLUSIONS The obtained results demonstrate that hybrid IgE repertoires represent a source for human antibodies with genuine paratopes. The IgE-derived information about the IgE epitope nature of Bet v 1 and homologues allows for detailed insights into molecular aspects of allergenicity and cross-reactivity within the PR10 protein family.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Hecker
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; University of Hamburg; Hamburg; Germany
| | - A. Diethers
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; University of Hamburg; Hamburg; Germany
| | - D. Schulz
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; University of Hamburg; Hamburg; Germany
| | - A. Sabri
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; University of Hamburg; Hamburg; Germany
| | - M. Plum
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; University of Hamburg; Hamburg; Germany
| | - Y. Michel
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; University of Hamburg; Hamburg; Germany
| | - M. Mempel
- Department of Dermatology, Venerology, and Allergology; Georg-August-University; Göttingen; Germany
| | - M. Ollert
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Clinical Research Division of Molecular and Clinical Allergotoxicology; Technische Universität München; Munich; Germany
| | - T. Jakob
- Department of Dermatology; University Medical Center Freiburg; Freiburg; Germany
| | - S. Blank
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; University of Hamburg; Hamburg; Germany
| | - I. Braren
- Hamburg Center for Experimental Therapy Research; University Medical Center Hamburg; Hamburg; Germany
| | - E. Spillner
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; University of Hamburg; Hamburg; Germany
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67
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Kitzmüller C, Wallner M, Deifl S, Mutschlechner S, Walterskirchen C, Zlabinger GJ, Ferreira F, Bohle B. A hypoallergenic variant of the major birch pollen allergen shows distinct characteristics in antigen processing and T-cell activation. Allergy 2012; 67:1375-82. [PMID: 22973879 DOI: 10.1111/all.12016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND BM4 is a novel genetically engineered variant of the major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1 that lacks the typical Bet v 1-like fold and displays negligible IgE-binding but strong T cell-activating capacity. The aim of this study was to elucidate possible differences between BM4 and Bet v 1 in internalization, antigen processing, and presentation. METHODS Proliferative responses to BM4 and Bet v 1 of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and Bet v 1-specific T-cell clones were compared. Fluorescently labeled BM4 and Bet v 1 were used to study surface binding, endocytosis, and intracellular degradation by monocyte-derived DC (mdDC). Both proteins were digested by endolysosomal extracts of mdDC. BM4- and Bet v 1-pulsed mdDC were employed to assess the kinetics of activation of Bet v 1-specific T-cell clones and the polarization of naïve T cells. RESULTS BM4 displayed a significantly stronger T cell-activating capacity than Bet v 1. Furthermore, BM4 showed increased surface binding and internalization as well as faster endolysosomal degradation compared with Bet v 1. BM4-pulsed mdDC induced enhanced proliferative responses at earlier time-points in Bet v 1-specific T-cell clones and promoted less IL-5 production in T cells than Bet v 1-pulsed mdDC. CONCLUSION The loss of the Bet v 1-fold changes the protein's interaction with the human immune system at the level of antigen-presenting cells resulting in altered T-cell responses. By combining low IgE-binding with strong and modulating T cell-activating capacity, BM4 represents a highly interesting candidate for specific immunotherapy of birch pollen allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Kitzmüller
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Immunomodulation, Medical University of Vienna; Vienna; Austria
| | - M. Wallner
- Department of Molecular Biology; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Allergy Diagnosis and Therapy, University of Salzburg; Salzburg; Austria
| | - S. Deifl
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Immunomodulation, Medical University of Vienna; Vienna; Austria
| | - S. Mutschlechner
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Immunomodulation, Medical University of Vienna; Vienna; Austria
| | - C. Walterskirchen
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Immunomodulation, Medical University of Vienna; Vienna; Austria
| | - G. J. Zlabinger
- Institute of Immunology, Medical University of Vienna; Vienna; Austria
| | - F. Ferreira
- Department of Molecular Biology; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Allergy Diagnosis and Therapy, University of Salzburg; Salzburg; Austria
| | - B. Bohle
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research; Christian Doppler Laboratory for Immunomodulation, Medical University of Vienna; Vienna; Austria
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68
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Linhart B, Valenta R. Vaccines for allergy. Curr Opin Immunol 2012; 24:354-60. [PMID: 22521141 PMCID: PMC3387375 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2012.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2012] [Accepted: 03/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines aim to establish or strengthen immune responses but are also effective for the treatment of allergy. The latter is surprising because allergy represents a hyper-immune response based on immunoglobulin E production against harmless environmental antigens, i.e., allergens. Nevertheless, vaccination with allergens, termed allergen-specific immunotherapy is the only disease-modifying therapy of allergy with long-lasting effects. New forms of allergy diagnosis and allergy vaccines based on recombinant allergen-derivatives, peptides and allergen genes have emerged through molecular allergen characterization. The molecular allergy vaccines allow sophisticated targeting of the immune system and may eliminate side effects which so far have limited the use of traditional allergen extract-based vaccines. Successful clinical trials performed with the new vaccines indicate that broad allergy vaccination is on the horizon and may help to control the allergy pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Linhart
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Austria
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70
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Linhart B, Valenta R. Mechanisms underlying allergy vaccination with recombinant hypoallergenic allergen derivatives. Vaccine 2011; 30:4328-35. [PMID: 22100888 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Revised: 10/24/2011] [Accepted: 11/03/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Hundred years ago therapeutic vaccination with allergen-containing extracts has been introduced as a clinically effective, disease-modifying, allergen-specific and long-lasting form of therapy for allergy, a hypersensitivity disease affecting more than 25% of the population. Today, the structures of most of the disease-causing allergens have been elucidated and recombinant hypoallergenic allergen derivatives with reduced allergenic activity have been engineered to reduce side effects during allergen-specific immunotherapy (SIT). These recombinant hypoallergens have been characterized in vitro, in experimental animal models and in clinical trials in allergic patients. This review provides a summary of the molecular, immunological and preclinical evaluation criteria applied for this new generation of allergy vaccines. Furthermore, we summarize the mechanisms underlying SIT with recombinant hypoallergens which are thought to be responsible for their therapeutic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Linhart
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center of Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
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71
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Neunkirchner A, Leb-Reichl VM, Schmetterer KG, Mutschlechner S, Kueng HJ, Haiderer D, Schuch K, Wallner M, Jahn-Schmid B, Bohle B, Pickl WF. Human TCR transgenic Bet v 1-specific Th1 cells suppress the effector function of Bet v 1-specific Th2 cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2011; 187:4077-87. [PMID: 21908735 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1003220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Pollinosis to birch pollen is a common type I allergy in the Northern Hemisphere. Moreover, birch pollen-allergic individuals sensitized to the major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1 frequently develop allergic reactions to stone fruits, hazelnuts, and certain vegetables due to immunological cross-reactivity. The major T cell epitope Bet v 1(142-153) plays an important role in cross-reactivity between the respiratory allergen Bet v 1 and its homologous food allergens. In this study, we cloned and functionally analyzed a human αβ TCR specific for the immunodominant epitope Bet v 1(142-153). cDNAs encoding TCR α- and β-chains were amplified from a Bet v 1(142-153)-specific T cell clone, introduced into Jurkat T cells and peripheral blood T lymphocytes of allergic and nonallergic individuals, and evaluated functionally. The resulting TCR transgenic (TCRtg) T cells responded in an allergen-specific and costimulation-dependent manner to APCs either pulsed with Bet v 1(142-153) peptide or coexpressing invariant chain::Bet v 1(142-153) fusion proteins. TCRtg T cells responded to Bet v 1-related food and tree pollen allergens that were processed and presented by monocyte-derived dendritic cells. Bet v 1(142-153)-presenting but not Bet v 1(4-15)-presenting artificial APCs coexpressing membrane-bound IL-12 polarized allergen-specific TCRtg T cells toward a Th1 phenotype, producing high levels of IFN-γ. Coculture of such Th1-polarized T cells with allergen-specific Th2-differentiated T cells significantly suppressed Th2 effector cytokine production. These data suggest that human allergen-specific TCR can transfer the fine specificity of the original T cell clone to heterologous T cells, which in turn can be instructed to modulate the effector function of the disease initiating/perpetuating allergen-specific Th2-differentiated T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Neunkirchner
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Immunomodulation, Vienna A-1090, Austria
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72
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Dall'Antonia F, Gieras A, Devanaboyina SC, Valenta R, Keller W. Prediction of IgE-binding epitopes by means of allergen surface comparison and correlation to cross-reactivity. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2011; 128:872-879.e8. [PMID: 21872913 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2011.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2010] [Revised: 06/29/2011] [Accepted: 07/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The experimental determination of conformational allergen epitopes recognized by IgE is a difficult task because they often involve discontinuous amino acid residues, being separated in the primary allergen sequence, and require the correct allergen fold. OBJECTIVE We sought to develop a computational tool for the localization of conformational IgE epitopes by using a structure-based comparison of allergen surfaces and IgE cross-reactivity data. METHODS Our approach involves the quantitative analysis of geometric and physicochemical surface parameters and the subsequent correlation of surface similarity scores to immunologic data. The software tool Surface comparison-based Prediction of Allergenic Discontinuous Epitopes (SPADE) is able to predict the IgE epitopes of an allergen given the availability of at least 2 structural models and IgE reactivity data. RESULTS We report on the application of our tool to 3 allergen families: the lipocalins, the group 10 pathogenesis-related proteins, and the group 2/3 grass pollen allergens. First, we succeeded in the partial relocalization of IgE epitopes of bovine β-lactoglobulin and grass pollen Phl p 2 as known from the x-ray structures of their antibody complexes. Second, we measured the relative binding of anti-Bet v 1 IgE to 10 homologous proteins and correlated these data to surface comparison results involving Bet v 1, 5 of the homologs, and 2 hypoallergenic Bet v 1 isoforms. Thereby we predicted IgE-reactive surface portions in agreement with IgE epitope-mapping studies. CONCLUSION Our approach is the first for the prediction of IgE epitopes by combining structural and IgE cross-reactivity data. It should be useful for the development of point-mutated or structurally disrupted allergen derivatives for allergen-specific immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Dall'Antonia
- Department of Structural Biology, Institute for Molecular Biosciences, Karl-Franzens-University Graz, Graz, Austria
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Flicker S, Gadermaier E, Madritsch C, Valenta R. Passive immunization with allergen-specific antibodies. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2011; 352:141-59. [PMID: 21681684 DOI: 10.1007/82_2011_143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The induction of allergen-specific IgG antibodies has been identified as a major mechanism responsible for the reduction of allergic inflammation in allergic patients treated by allergen-specific immunotherapy. Several studies suggest that allergen-specific IgG antibodies induced by vaccination with allergens block mast cell and basophil degranulation, IgE-facilitated allergen presentation to T cells and IgE production. The availability of recombinant allergens and technologies for the production of recombinant human antibodies allows engineering of allergen-specific antibodies which can be used for passive immunization (i.e., therapy) and eventually for the prevention of allergy (i.e., prophylaxis). This chapter summarizes data supporting the possible use of allergen-specific antibodies for treatment and prophylaxis. Finally, concrete approaches for the treatment and prevention of allergy based on blocking antibodies are envisioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Flicker
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Vienna General Hospital, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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