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Japanese cedar and cypress pollinosis updated: New allergens, cross-reactivity, and treatment. Allergol Int 2021; 70:281-290. [PMID: 33962864 DOI: 10.1016/j.alit.2021.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pollen from many tree species in the Cupressaceae family is a well-known cause of seasonal allergic diseases worldwide. Japanese cedar pollinosis and Japanese cypress pollinosis, which are caused by pollen from Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) and Japanese cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa), respectively, are the most prevalent seasonal allergic diseases in Japan. Recently, the novel major Japanese cypress allergen Cha o 3 and the homologous Japanese cedar allergen Cry j cellulase were identified, and it was shown, for the first time, that cellulase in plants is allergenic. Although the allergenic components of pollen from both species exhibit high amino acid sequence identity, their pollinosis responded differently to allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) using a standardized extract of Japanese cedar pollen. Pharmacotherapy and ASIT for Japanese cedar and cypress pollinosis have advanced considerably in recent years. In particular, Japanese cedar ASIT has entered a new phase, primarily in response to the generation of updated efficacy data and the development of new formulations. In this review, we focus on both Japanese cypress and cedar pollinosis, and discuss the latest findings, newly identified causative allergens, and new treatments. To manage pollinosis symptoms during spring effectively, ASIT for both Japanese cedar and Japanese cypress pollen is considered necessary.
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Tosunoglu A, Saatcioglu G, Bekil S, Malyer H, Bicakci A. Atmospheric pollen spectrum in Stone City, Mardin; the northern border of Mesopotamia/SE-Turkey. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2018; 190:635. [PMID: 30338406 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-018-7014-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Airborne pollen distribution in Mardin city was measured volumetrically during three consecutive years, 2014-2016. Three thousand eight hundred fifty-seven pollen grains as a mean value belonging to 44 taxa were recorded annually during the study period, and pollen grains from woody plant taxa had the more substantial atmospheric contribution with 62.66% and with 23 taxa. Despite the differences between years, the highest pollen concentration was recorded in April. The main pollen producers of the pollen spectrum were Cupressaceae (27.79%), Poaceae (21.21%), Platanus (10.29%), Morus (6.19%), Olea europaea (5.01%), Quercus (4.91%), Pinus (3.84%), and Amaranthaceae (3.73%) and almost all dominant pollen types in the city atmosphere were previously stated to be allergic. The atmospheric sampling data was characterized by the high presence of woody plants in spring, as well as the high presentation of herbaceous plants in late spring to early winter. The main pollen season (MPS) and durations of dominated pollen types were analyzed and mostly found a little bit earlier or parallel with similar studies in Mediterranean basin, but found earlier than the east. Statistical analyses were performed to compare years with each other and for correlating daily pollen concentrations of dominated pollen types concurrent with the data of meteorological parameters; a number of significant correlations were found.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tosunoglu
- Science & Arts Faculty, Department of Biology, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey.
| | - G Saatcioglu
- Battalgazi Vocational School, Turgut Ozal University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - S Bekil
- Science & Arts Faculty, Department of Biology, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - H Malyer
- Science & Arts Faculty, Department of Biology, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - A Bicakci
- Science & Arts Faculty, Department of Biology, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
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Ventura MT, Musi M, Giuliano G, Arsieni A, Di Leo E, Buquicchio R, Accettura G, Spanevello A, Foschino-Barbaro MP, Resta O. Latex Allergy and Sensitization in Cities: A Survey in a Population at Risk. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2016; 19:821-30. [PMID: 17166403 DOI: 10.1177/039463200601900411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The constant increase in allergic diseases in western countries is correlated with changes in lifestyle and with the deterioration of the air inhaled by the inhabitants because of the growing concentrations of pollutant substances present. Within a population at risk, i.e., the inhabitants of cities, a group of subjects at even higher risk was selected, whose job exposes them to automobile exhaust fumes for many hours a day. All the study subjects underwent allergological screening and spirometry. The results obtained show an overall increase of respiratory allergic diseases but no increased sensitisation to latex. It therefore seems plausible that, besides social and lifestyle changes, the deterioration of the quality of the air could be considered responsible, at least in part, for the growing numbers of allergic subjects. This study offers an opportunity to reconsider the validity of the “hygiene hypothesis” as an explanation for the increase of allergic disease in western countries, although recent reports have indicated that a sedentary lifestyle may also contribute, together with environmental degradation, to the notably increased prevalence of allergic diseases in large cities in industrialized nations.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Ventura
- Department of Internal Medicine, Immunology and Infectious Diseases (MIDIM), University of Bari Medical School, Policlinico, Bari, Italy.
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Tosunoglu A, Bicakci A. Seasonal and intradiurnal variation of airborne pollen concentrations in Bodrum, SW Turkey. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2015; 187:167. [PMID: 25750068 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-015-4384-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
An aeropalynological study was performed in Bodrum, the famous tourism center in southwestern Turkey with a Hirst-type volumetric 7-day pollen and spore trap for 2 years (2007-2008). In Bodrum, 25,099 pollen grains as a mean value belonging to 41 taxa were recorded annually during the study period, and pollen grains from woody plant taxa had the largest atmospheric contribution of 86.99% and 24 taxa. However, 17 herbaceous plant taxa constituted 12.82% of the annual total pollen count, and 0.19% were unidentified. An average annual pollen index of 22.66% was recorded in March, despite differences from year to year. The highest pollen variability of 34 taxa was recorded in April and May. Predominant pollen types belonged to Cupressaceae/Taxaceae (42.73%), Quercus (15.95%), Pinus (9.78%), Olea europaea (9.04%), Poaceae (5.50%), Betula (1.82%), Pistacia (1.74%), Morus (1.72%), Urticaceae (1.46%), and Plantago (1.28%) and generated 91.03 of the annual total. In total, 32.59% of the mean annual total pollen index was recorded in the morning, and less pollen was recorded in the evening (18.71%). Maximum pollen concentration was recorded between 11:00 and 12:00 a.m.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aycan Tosunoglu
- Department of Biology, Science & Arts Faculty, Uludag University, Gorukle Campus, 16059, Nilufer, Bursa, Turkey,
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Benítez FM, Camacho AL, del Cuvillo Bernal A, de Medina PLS, García Cózar FJ, Romeu ME. Determination of allergenic load and pollen count of Cupressus arizonica pollen by flow cytometry using Cup a1 polyclonal antibody. CYTOMETRY PART B-CLINICAL CYTOMETRY 2013; 86:63-9. [PMID: 23926112 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.b.21114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Revised: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an increase in the incidence of pollen related allergy, thus information on pollen schedules would be a great asset for physicians to improve the clinical care of patients. Like cypress pollen sensitization shows a high prevalence among the causes of allergic rhinitis, and therefore it is of interest to use it like a model of study, distinguishing cypress pollen, pollen count, and allergenic load level. In this work, we use a flow cytometry based technique to obtain both Cupressus arizonica pollen count and allergenic load, using specific rabbit polyclonal antibody Cup a1 and its comparison with optical microscopy technique measurement. METHODS Airborne samples were collected from Burkard Spore-Trap and Burkard Cyclone Cupressus arizonica pollen was studied using specific rabbit polyclonal antibody Cup a1, labeled with AlexaFluor(®) 488 or 750 and analysed by Flow Cytometry in both an EPICS XL and Cyan ADP cytometers (Beckman Coulter(®) ). Optical microscopy study was realized with a Leica optical microscope. Bland and Altman was used to determine agreement between both techniques measured. RESULTS We can identify three different populations based on rabbit polyclonal antibody Cup a1 staining. The main region (44.5%) had 97.3% recognition, a second region (25%) with 28% and a third region (30.5%) with 68% respectively. Immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy showed that main region corresponds to whole pollen grains, the second region are pollen without exine and the third region is constituted by smaller particles with allergenic properties. Pollen schedule shows a higher correlation measured by optical microscopy and flow cytometry in the pollen count with a P-value: 0.0008 E(-2) and 0.0002 with regard to smaller particles, so the Bland and Altman measurement showed a good correlation between them, P-value: 0.0003. CONCLUSION Determination of pollen count and allergenic load by flow cytometry represents an important tool in the determination of airborne respiratory allergens. We showed that not only whole pollen but also smaller particles could induce allergic sensitization. This is the first study where flow cytometry is used for calculating pollen counts and allergenic load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Moreno Benítez
- Unidad de Alergia de Clínica Dr. Lobatón, S.L., Cádiz, Spain; Cátedra Externa "Inmunología y Alergia"-UCA-Asociación para la Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud. Dr. Pedro Lobatón
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Pico de Coaña Y, Parody N, Fuertes MÁ, Carnés J, Roncarolo D, Ariano R, Sastre J, Mistrello G, Alonso C. Molecular cloning and characterization of Cup a 4, a new allergen from Cupressus arizonica. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2010; 401:451-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2010.09.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2010] [Accepted: 09/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Brunetto B, Tinghino R, Braschi MC, Antonicelli L, Pini C, Iacovacci P. Characterization and comparison of commercially available mite extracts for in vivo diagnosis. Allergy 2010; 65:184-90. [PMID: 19796217 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2009.02150.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assessment of sensitization by allergen-specific IgE testing and skin prick testing (SPT) are primary tools in routine clinical diagnosis of allergies. To perform a correct diagnosis, it is critical that the allergen reagent used contains an adequate amount of all relevant components. This study aimed at evaluating commercially available mite extracts for in vivo diagnosis from eight manufacturers. METHODS Eight extracts from Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and eight from Dermatophagoides farinae were analysed for total protein content by Bradford and for major allergen content by ELISA. SDS-PAGE, immunoblotting and SPT were also carried out. RESULTS The protein amount ranged from 27.7 microg/ml extract to 361.1 microg/ml (D. pteronyssinus) and from 20.3 to 353.0 microg/ml (D. farinae). In regards major allergen concentration, Der p 1 ranged from 9.6 to 36.2 microg/ml, Der f 1 26.5-196.1 microg/ml, mite group 2 0.7-31.7 microg/ml in D. pteronyssinus and 1.3-10.4 microg/ml in D. farinae. SDS-PAGE experiments showed that some components are poorly represented or absent in extracts from most manufacturers. Similar results were obtained by IgE-immunoblotting and SPT with 10 mite allergic patients confirmed a broad spectrum of reactivity of the extracts in the same subject. CONCLUSIONS Immunochemical analysis showed a heterogeneous amount of component/s among mite extracts from different manufacturers. These data were confirmed by in vivo testing, suggesting that, for some of the patient tested, the absence of relevant allergens could strongly affect the diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Brunetto
- Center for Immunobiologicals Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome
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Shahali Y, Pourpak Z, Moin M, Mari A, Majd A. Instability of the structure and allergenic protein content in Arizona cypress pollen. Allergy 2009; 64:1773-9. [PMID: 19624556 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2009.02064.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The allergenic characteristics of pollen and their levels of expression may vary depending on the plant species, the degree of maturation and the influence of environmental factors such as climate and atmospheric pollution. The objective of this survey was the comparison of the structure and allergenic protein content in Arizona cypress (Cupressus arizonica, CA) pollen collected just after microsporangia dehiscence and 2 weeks later in urban areas. METHODS The morphology and structure of pollen were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Pollen protein content was quantitatively and qualitatively investigated by Bradford protein assay, SDS-PAGE and densitometric analysis respectively. Fifteen allergic subjects, according to their clinical history of seasonal rhino-conjunctivitis and bronchial asthma have been selected for skin prick testing and ImmunoCap using CA standard allergen and for immunoblotting using extracts of CA mature pollen collected from Tehran. RESULTS After 2 weeks, numerous cracks and collapses appeared in pollen surfaces. Western blotting performed by using extracts of pollen collected from Tehran, revealed that sera-specific immunoglobulin E of all allergic subjects reacted to a 35 kDa protein. The presence of this new major allergen and the decrease of Cup a 1 provide reliable explications about the low efficiency of standard commercial allergens in the diagnosis of the CA pollen allergy in Tehran. CONCLUSION The instability of the pollen structure and protein content affects CA pollen allergenic properties. This study also suggests that to optimize CA standard allergen preparations, the eventual variability of pollen allergenic components have to be considered for each region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Shahali
- Immunology, Asthma and Allergy Research Institute, Medical Sciences/University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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Demoly P, Dreyfus I, Dhivert-Donnadieu H, Mesbah K. Desloratadine for the treatment of cypress pollen-induced allergic rhinitis. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2009; 103:260-6. [PMID: 19788025 DOI: 10.1016/s1081-1206(10)60191-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have been conducted to assess treatment options for patients with sensitivities to cypress pollens, important triggers of allergic rhinitis (AR) in the Mediterranean region. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of desloratadine, a second-generation antihistamine, on AR symptoms caused by cypress pollens native to France. METHODS Adults (N=233) with symptomatic cypress pollen allergies were randomized to receive desloratadine, 5 mg, or placebo daily for 15 days during 2 consecutive cypress pollen seasons. The primary end point was the percentage change from baseline in morning total nasal symptom scores on day 14; secondary assessments included total symptom score, peak nasal inspiratory flow, the Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire, and global response to therapy. RESULTS On day 14, the desloratadine group had a significantly greater percentage decrease in total nasal symptom score vs the placebo group (-40% vs. -30%; P < .04). Similarly, on day 14, there was a 47% and 37% respective decrease in total symptom score (P = .01). Mean peak nasal inspiratory flow scores showed numeric, albeit not statistically significant, improvements from baseline through day 14 with desloratadine. A significantly greater improvement in Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire scores occurred with desloratadine vs placebo on day 14 (-1.4 vs. -0.9; P = .004). The mean global response to therapy was better with desloratadine vs placebo (3.4 vs. 3.9; P = .004). The adverse event rate was similar in both groups. CONCLUSION Desloratadine is efficacious and safe for the treatment of AR induced by cypress pollens; it also improved disease-related quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Demoly
- Allergy Department, INSERM U657, Maladies Respiratoires, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
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Gizzarelli F, Corinti S, Barletta B, Iacovacci P, Brunetto B, Butteroni C, Afferni C, Onori R, Miraglia M, Panzini G, Di Felice G, Tinghino R. Evaluation of allergenicity of genetically modified soybean protein extract in a murine model of oral allergen-specific sensitization. Clin Exp Allergy 2006; 36:238-48. [PMID: 16433863 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2005.02415.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the development of genetically modified crop plants there has been a growing interest in the approaches available to assess the potential allergenicity of novel gene products. For additional assessment of the potential allergenicity of expressed proteins, informative data can be generated using animal models. Soybean is one of the major source of protein in human and animal nutrition, and has also been well characterized as a major allergenic source. Advances in biotechnology have resulted in an increasing number of genetically engineered foods, and among these soybean is one of the most widespread. OBJECTIVE To develop and characterize a murine model of IgE-mediated soybean sensitization induced by intragastric immunization, in the presence of Cholera Toxin, with wild-type soybean extract (wt-SE) or with genetically modified soybean extract (gm-SE). METHODS Balb/c mice born in our animal facilities, from females fed on soy-free food, were fed with the same soy-free food and used in all the experiments. Mice were sensitized by gavages with soybean extracts, and allergen-specific IgE and IgG responses were studied by direct ELISA and ELISA inhibition. Antigen-specific cell proliferation and cytokine production were evaluated in spleen cell cultures. Results Sensitization with both soybean extracts induced high levels of antigen-specific IgE and IgG1 and low levels of specific IgG2a. Both wt-SE and gm-SE were able to inhibit the binding of specific IgE from mice immunized with gm-SE to the same antigen used for the ELISA coating. A comparable proliferative response was obtained with the homologous as well as with the heterologous extracts. CONCLUSION In sensitized mice, we observed a predominantly T-helper type 2 (Th2)-type immune response, with increased soybean-specific IgE and IgG1 antibodies and a concomitant increase of IL-4 and IL-5 production. RESULTS obtained by specific IgE ELISA inhibition and by antigen-specific T cell proliferation demonstrated that wt-SE and gm-SE shared B and T epitopes. The present murine model of soybean sensitization established by the oral route should provide valuable information about risk assessment for food allergy from new proteins of genetically modified foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Gizzarelli
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-mediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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Arilla MC, Ibarrola I, Martínez A, Asturias JA. Quantification assay for the major allergen of Cupressus sempervirens pollen, Cup s 1, by sandwich ELISA. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2005; 32:319-25. [PMID: 15617658 DOI: 10.1016/s0301-0546(04)79263-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Cupressaceae are an important cause of pollinosis, particularly in Mediterranean countries. Cypress pollen allergenic extracts are difficult to produce since they have a low protein and a high carbohydrate content and consequently accurate standardization of these extracts is essential for diagnosis and immunotherapy. METHOD Natural Cup s 1 was purified by a combination of hydrophobic interaction, gel filtration and ion exchange chromatographies and its enzymatic activity was analyzed. The allergen was used as reference material in the ELISA standard curve. The assay was based on a specific monoclonal antibody (3D2) immobilized on ELISA plates and used to capture Cup s 1. Bound proteins were detected by a combination of biotinylated specific antiserum and peroxidase-conjugated streptavidin. RESULTS Purified Cup s 1 is a functional pectate lyase enzyme with a specific activity of 750 U/mg protein. The developed ELISA measured Cup s 1 concentrations ranging from 31.25 to 250 ng/ml in the lineal portion of the standard curve. The intra-assay and inter-assay variation coefficients in the working range were less than 8.1 % and 16 %, respectively. The assay was highly sensitive, with a detection limit of 3.8 ng/ml. The dose-response curves obtained with C. sempervirens pollen extracts and extracts belonging to other species from the Cupressaceae family showed a good parallelism compared with those obtained using the purified allergen, indicating that the same protein was measured. CONCLUSIONS The assay described is sensitive, specific and reproducible for the quantification of Cup s 1 in C. sempervirens pollen extracts for clinical use. This ELISA could also be useful for other Cupressaceae-related pollen extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Arilla
- Research and Development Department, Bial-Arístegui, Bilbao, Spain
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Barletta B, Butteroni C, Puggioni EMR, Iacovacci P, Afferni C, Tinghino R, Ariano R, Panzani RC, Pini C, Di Felice G. Immunological characterization of a recombinant tropomyosin from a new indoor source, Lepisma saccharina. Clin Exp Allergy 2005; 35:483-9. [PMID: 15836758 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2005.02214.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of specific IgE antibodies to invertebrates is common among patients with rhinitis and asthma. Tropomyosin has been described as an invertebrate cross-reactive allergen. We have recently characterized an allergenic extract from silverfish (Lepisma saccharina). Since this insect could be a new source of tropomyosin in the indoor environment, we have thought important to clone and characterize the tropomyosin from it. METHODS Recombinant tropomyosin was cloned and characterized by means of immunoblotting with tropomyosin-specific monoclonal antibodies, rabbit polyclonal antibodies and IgE from allergic patients. Its allergenic activity was investigated in histamine release assays. Immunoblotting and ELISA inhibition were carried out to identify the natural tropomyosin in the silverfish extract and to study the cross-reactivity among other arthropod tropomyosins. RESULTS Tropomyosin-specific antibodies recognized in immunoblotting the natural tropomyosin in the insoluble fraction of silverfish extract. The silverfish tropomyosin (Lep s 1) was cloned and fully expressed. It shared high homology with other arthropod tropomyosins. rLep s 1 was recognized by tropomyosin-specific monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies and by IgE of allergic patients. It was able to inhibit the IgE binding to the insoluble fraction of silverfish extract, and to induce histamine release by an arthropod-allergic serum. Inhibition experiments revealed IgE cross-reactivity between rLep s 1 and other arthropod tropomyosins. CONCLUSION rLep s 1 is the first allergen cloned and characterized from silverfish extract. It enabled us to identify the natural counterpart in the insoluble fraction of silverfish extract, suggesting that the tropomyosin is not readily extractable with a classic aqueous extraction procedure. rLep s 1 displayed biological activity, suggesting that it could be regarded as a useful tool to study the role of silverfish tropomyosin in the sensitization to invertebrate allergic sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Barletta
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-mediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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Abstract
Although Cupressus sempervirens has been spread over southern Europe since antiquity, cypress pollen allergy has not been reported until 1945. In France, the very first case reports were published in 1962. Since then, the prevalence of cypress pollinosis seems to demonstrate an upward trend, concomitantly with the increased use of cypress trees as ornamental plants, as wind breaks and as hedges. Hyposensitization, using improved pollen extracts, is increasingly prescribed. Besides, prevention measures begin to be implemented. Such measures include avoidance of planting new cypress trees, especially near human populations' centres, trimming of cypress hedges before the pollination season and agronomical research for hypoallergenic trees. Altogether, such new developments in cypress allergy deserve an update review.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Charpin
- Chest Diseases and Allergy Department, Hôpital Nord and UPRES N 1784, Université de la Méditerranée, Marseille, France
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Bistoni O, Emiliani C, Agea E, Russano AM, Mencarelli S, Orlacchio A, Spinozzi F. Biochemical and Immunological Characterization of Pollen-Derived β-Galactosidase Reveals a New Cross-Reactive Class of Allergens among Mediterranean Trees. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2005; 136:123-33. [PMID: 15650309 DOI: 10.1159/000083319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2004] [Accepted: 09/22/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The most potent allergens in the Spermatophytae family exhibit significant homology with enzymes. Some of these are though to be involved in pectin metabolism, recognition of compatible stigma and delivery of sperm cells to the ovule. OBJECTIVE To test if glycohydrolase activities from some Mediterranean tree pollens could act as allergens in sensitized hosts. METHODS Freshly collected Cupressus and Olea pollens were investigated for their glycohydrolase activities by means of synthetic fluorogenic substrates and isoenzymes characterized by DEAE-cellulose ion-exchange chromatography. Binding of specific IgE was investigated by immunoblotting in 30 tree-sensitive subjects, as well as in 20 atopic non-tree-sensitive and 15 healthy controls. The enzymes were also adopted to stimulate proliferation of allergen-specific T cell clones. Finally, they were tested in vivo in a cutaneous immediate wheal and flare reaction. RESULTS beta-Galactosidase (beta-GAL) is present with different isoenzymatic patterns on both pollen extracts, could be recognized by circulating IgE, as well as immunoprecipitated by sera from allergic subjects. The enzyme could stimulate the proliferation of T cells from allergic subjects, and favor the emergence of CD4+ T cell clones with specific in vitro reactivity to beta-GAL. Finally, the enzyme induced in vivo a cutaneous wheal and flare reaction in clinically sensitive subjects. CONCLUSIONS Despite different isoenzymatic patterns, Olea-derived beta-GAL cross-reacted with that from cypress pollen, suggesting that these enzymatic glycoproteins may represent major native allergens among these Mediterranean trees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onelia Bistoni
- Laboratory of Experimental Immunology and Allergy, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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Rea G, Iacovacci P, Ferrante P, Zelli M, Brunetto B, Lamba D, Boffi A, Pini C, Federico R. Refolding of the Cupressus arizonica major pollen allergen Cup a1.02 overexpressed in Escherichia coli. Protein Expr Purif 2004; 37:419-25. [PMID: 15358365 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2004.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2004] [Revised: 06/24/2004] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The cDNA encoding an isoform of the cypress major pollen allergen, Cup a1.02, has been cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli as a N-terminal 6x His-tagged protein. To increase recovery, Cup a1.02 was expressed at high levels exploiting the T5 strong promoter and led to accumulate as inclusion bodies. The insoluble purified aggregates were solubilized in 6 M guanidine hydrochloride, immobilized using nickel-chelating affinity chromatography, and successfully refolded by controlled removal of the chaotropic reagent. Enhanced protein refolding was observed by reducing the protein concentration at 0.6-0.8 mg/ml. SDS-PAGE and gel filtration chromatography indicated an apparent molecular mass of approximately 40 kDa and the occurrence of the protein as monomers. The reconstituted fusion protein displayed the same immunological properties of the native Cup a1.02 protein as proven by IgE immunoreactivity. Immunoblotting, ELISA, and histamine release test showed that the tag did not preclude the protein functionality hence validating its correct three-dimensional folding. The protein fold was also assessed by CD spectroscopy and deconvolution of the spectrum allowed to estimate the secondary structure as a prevalence of beta structures (higher than 60%) and a small contribution from alpha helices (less than 12%). The reported procedure has proven to be useful for the production of multi-milligrams of recombinant Cup a1.02 allergen suitable for structural biology studies and for the molecular and functional characterization of the IgE binding sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Rea
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, P.O. Box 10, I-00016 Monterotondo Stazione, Rome, Italy.
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18
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Cortegano I, Civantos E, Aceituno E, del Moral A, López E, Lombardero M, del Pozo V, Lahoz C. Cloning and expression of a major allergen from Cupressus arizonica pollen, Cup a 3, a PR-5 protein expressed under polluted environment. Allergy 2004; 59:485-90. [PMID: 15080828 DOI: 10.1046/j.1398-9995.2003.00363.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This paper describes the cloning and expression of the Cupressus arizonica pollen protein Cup a 3. In addition, we present its modulation under polluted environmental conditions. Species of the Cupressaceae family are important because of their high sensitization prevalence. METHODS Cup a 3 cloning is based on the sequence of the homologous protein Jun a 3. Cup a 3 was expressed with good yield in the methylotropic yeast Pichia pastoris. RESULTS Recombinant Cup a 3 (rCup a 3) contains 199 amino acids, 10 potential phosphorylation sites and no glycosylation sites. By immunoblot 63% of cypress allergic patients had specific immunoglobulin E antibodies against rCup a 3 (n = 104). This major allergen is homologous to members of the pathogenesis-related proteins (PR-5 group) and contributes to the overall allergenicity of C. arizonica pollen. Our results show that the increased expression of Cup a 3 is dependent on the pollution in the area where the pollen has been collected, being higher under polluted conditions. CONCLUSIONS Cup a 3 is a PR-5 protein derived from C. arizonica pollen. The expression of the protein under polluted conditions has a direct incidence on the pollen allergenicity, as has been demonstrated by skin tests and Radioallergosorbent test inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Cortegano
- Immunology Department, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
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19
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Hrabina M, Dumur JP, Sicard H, Viatte A, Andre C. Diagnosis of cypress pollen allergy: in vivo and in vitro standardization of a Juniperus ashei pollen extract. Allergy 2003; 58:808-13. [PMID: 12859563 DOI: 10.1034/j.1398-9995.2003.00247.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cypress pollen allergy is a major cause of rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma in the Mediterranean area. The nonstandardized cypress allergen extracts currently available for the diagnosis of cypress allergy have a low level of activity. The search for an active material has led to the selection of Juniperus ashei (Ja) pollen because of its very high cross-reactivity with cypress extracts and its superior allergenic activity. The aim of this study was to characterize in vitro and calibrate in vivo an in-house reference extract (IHRS) of J. ashei pollen and determine the specificity and sensitivity of a standardized Ja extract for the prick test diagnosis of cypress allergy. METHODS Juniperus ashei pollen extract was analysed by 2-D electrophoresis. The IHRS Ja extract was calibrated by skin prick testing in 28 cypress-allergic patients. The sensitivity and specificity of cypress allergy diagnosis using a standardized Ja extract was studied by skin prick test in 42 cypress-allergic patients and 53 nonallergic patients. Jun a 1 content of the IHRS was determined by a monoclonal antibody-based electrophoretic technique. RESULTS The Jun a 1 content of the 100 IR/ml Ja IHRS extract was 180 microg/ml. For in vivo diagnosis of cypress allergy, Ja pollen extract demonstrated a sensitivity of 95%, a specificity of 100%, a negative predictive value of 96%, and a positive predictive value of 100%. CONCLUSION Standardized Ja pollen extract is therefore a very appropriate tool for the in vivo diagnosis of cypress pollen allergy and good candidate for specific immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Hrabina
- Département Scientifique et Médical, Stallergènes S.A., Antony, France; Aix en Provence, France
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20
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Ariano R, Spadolini I, Panzani RC. Efficacy of sublingual specific immunotherapy in Cupressaceae allergy using an extract of Cupressus arizonica. A double blind study. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2001; 29:238-44. [PMID: 11834182 DOI: 10.1016/s0301-0546(01)79065-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND non-injective routes of immunotherapy in respiratory allergy have being proposed as an alternative to conventional immunotherapy. We carried out a study to evaluate the clinical efficacy and effects sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) in patient with Cupressaceae pollen respiratory allergy. METHODS twenty patients with Cupressaceae pollen (C. sempervirens) rhinoconjunctivitis, mild asthma or both were randomly chosen for sublingual immunotherapy (10 patients) or placebo treatment (10 patients) using a double blind placebo controlled technique. We have used an extract of Cupressus arizonica because of its better stability in solution and its crossreactivity with Cupressus sempervirens. The patients underwent treatment for 12 months (from april 1999 to april 2000). Symptoms and drug scores as well as nasal provocation tests were recorded. The pollen counts were carried out, during all the same period. RESULTS we found significantly lower symptom scores (p < 0.05) and drug consumption scores (p < 0.05) in the immunotherapy group than in the placebo group, during the pollen season, after the first year of therapy. Besides threshold of allergen reactivity in nasal provocation tests was increased in the active group (p < 0.01). No untoward reactions have been observed. CONCLUSIONS SLIT with Cupressus arizonica (pollen extracts) produced, after one year treatment, a significant improvement of allergic symptoms and a decrease of drug consumption scores and allergen-specific nasal reactivity. SLIT with Cupressus arizonica appeared to be effective and safe in the treatment of Cupressaceae pollen respiratory allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Ariano
- Modulo di Allergologia ed Immunologia Clinica, A.S.L. Imperiese-Ospedale S. Charles di Bordighera, Italy
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21
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Alisi C, Afferni C, Iacovacci P, Barletta B, Tinghino R, Butteroni C, Puggioni EM, Wilson IB, Federico R, Schininà ME, Ariano R, Di Felice G, Pini C. Rapid isolation, characterization, and glycan analysis of Cup a 1, the major allergen of Arizona cypress (Cupressus arizonica) pollen. Allergy 2001; 56:978-84. [PMID: 11576077 DOI: 10.1034/j.1398-9995.2001.103125.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A rapid method for the purification of the major 43-kDa allergen of Cupressus arizonica pollen, Cup a 1, was developed. METHODS The salient feature was a wash of the pollen in acidic buffer, followed by an extraction of the proteins and their purification by chromatography. Immunoblotting, ELISA, and lectin binding were tested on both the crude extract and the purified Cup a 1. Biochemical analyses were performed to assess the Cup a 1 isoelectric point, its partial amino-acid sequence, and its glycan composition. RESULTS Immunochemical analysis of Cup a 1 confirmed that the allergenic reactivity is maintained after the purification process. Partial amino-acid sequencing indicated a high degree of homology between Cup a 1 and allergenic proteins from the Cupressaceae and Taxodiaceae families displaying a similar molecular mass. The purified protein shows one band with an isoelectric point of 5.2. Nineteen out of 33 sera (57%) from patients allergic to cypress demonstrated significant reactivity to purified Cup a 1. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry indicated the presence of three N-linked oligosaccharide structures: GnGnXF(3) (i.e., a horseradish peroxidase-type oligosaccharide substituted with two nonreducing N-acetylglucosamine residues), GGnXF(3)/GnGXF(3) (i.e., GnGnXF with one nonreducing galactose residue), and (GF)GnXF(3)/Gn(GF)XF(3) (with a Lewisa epitope on one arm) in the molar ratio 67:8:23. CONCLUSION The rapid purification process of Cup a 1 allowed some fine studies on its properties and structure, as well as the evaluation of its IgE reactivity in native conditions. The similarities of amino-acid sequences and some complex glycan stuctures could explain the high degree of cross-reactivity among the Cupressaceae and Taxodiaceae families.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Alisi
- Department of Immunology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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22
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Iacovacci P, Pini C, Afferni C, Barletta B, Tinghino R, Schininà E, Federico R, Mari A, Di Felice G. A monoclonal antibody specific for a carbohydrate epitope recognizes an IgE-binding determinant shared by taxonomically unrelated allergenic pollens. Clin Exp Allergy 2001; 31:458-65. [PMID: 11260159 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2222.2001.01019.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Carbohydrate epitopes are capable of binding human IgE from allergic subjects and these epitopes play a role in the cross-reactivity between allergens from unrelated sources. A monoclonal antibody (5E6), specific for a carbohydrate epitope detectable on components of Cupressus arizonica pollen extract, has been produced and characterized. To study the relationship between the epitopes recognized by the monoclonal antibody and by IgE from allergic subjects. To investigate the presence of such carbohydrate IgE determinant in extracts from 21 pollen species belonging to 16 taxonomically related and unrelated families, by means of the monoclonal antibody. IgG-depleted fraction from protein G-purified human allergic serum was obtained. The monoclonal antibody and the IgE from the purified fraction were tested on two glycoproteins, polyamine oxidase and ascorbate oxidase, adsorbed on the ELISA plates. The relationship between the monoclonal- and the IgE-recognized epitopes was investigated by ELISA-competition experiments. Analysis of the distribution of this carbohydrate epitope was performed by direct binding of the monoclonal antibody onto the various extracts. The monoclonal antibody and the IgE were able to bind carbohydrate epitopes on the two plant glycoproteins, ascorbate oxidase and polyamine oxidase. Polyamine oxidase shows only one N-glycosilation site whose carbohydrate moiety seems to be composed of a branched chain of seven ordered sugars, i.e. two N-acetyl-D-glucosamine-, three mannose-, one fucose- and one xylose-residues. This structure bears the epitope recognized by mAb 5E6. Human IgE from the IgG-depleted fraction were found capable of inhibiting the monoclonal antibody binding. The allergenic epitope identified was shared by a large number of extracts with different levels of reactivity (OD490 ranging from 0.110 to 2.060). Our data support the finding that a monoclonal antibody specific for a carbohydrate epitope of Cupressus arizonica pollen extract detects an epitope which is also recognized by IgE from allergic subjects. This characterized reagent could be a useful tool for studying distribution of cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants in allergenic pollen extracts and their components.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Iacovacci
- Department of Immunology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, V. la Regina Elena, 299, I-00161 Rome, Italy
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23
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Aceituno E, Del Pozo V, Mínguez A, Arrieta I, Cortegano I, Cárdaba B, Gallardo S, Rojo M, Palomino P, Lahoz C. Molecular cloning of major allergen from Cupressus arizonica pollen: Cup a 1. Clin Exp Allergy 2000; 30:1750-8. [PMID: 11122214 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2222.2000.00949.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The family Cupressaceae is a relevant source of allergens that causes winter respiratory allergies. Cloning and sequencing the major antigen of Cupressus arizonica is important for a better diagnosis and treatment of sensitized patients. To obtain a full-length complementary DNA for Cup a 1, the major allergen of Cupressus arizonica pollen. It was cloned and sequenced and the recombinant protein was expressed. Messenger RNA from Cupressus arizonica pollen was obtained and the Cup a 1 sequence was established using a 3'-RACE system and primers based on the N-terminal amino acid sequence. Recombinant Cup a 1 was cloned in pBluescript and expressed in a glycosylated form in rabbit reticulocytes. The cDNA was subcloned in pGEX-5X-1 and expressed in Escherichia coli as a fusion protein with GST. Recombinant Cup a 1 is highly homologous with the major allergens of mountain cedar (Jun a 1), Japanese cypress (Cha o 1) and Japanese cedar (Cry j 1). Cup a 1 contains three potential N-glycosylation sites that are different from those found in Jun a 1 and Cry j 1. The cloned protein contains a pectate lyase active site identical to those of Cry j 1 and Jun a 1. The IgE from patients' sera recognizes recombinant Cup a 1, and this reactivity is higher with the glycosylated protein. Cup a 1 has been cloned and sequenced. As expected, the high degree of homology with Cha o 1, Jun a 1 and Cry j 1 explains the cross-reactivity of conifer pollens. Different IgE reactivity with the glycosylated and non-glycosylated protein suggests the importance of carbohydrate moieties in the IgE binding site.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Aceituno
- Immunology Department, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
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24
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Pâris-Köhler A, Demoly P, Persi L, Lebel B, Bousquet J, Arnoux B. In vitro diagnosis of cypress pollen allergy by using cytofluorimetric analysis of basophils (Basotest). J Allergy Clin Immunol 2000; 105:339-45. [PMID: 10669856 DOI: 10.1016/s0091-6749(00)90085-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cupressaceae pollen allergy is a worldwide pollinosis, but its in vitro diagnosis is notoriously difficult. The Basotest is a newly available in vitro test for the detection of allergen-specific IgE based on the level of cellular activation of basophils by using flow cytometry. OBJECTIVES The Basotest was compared with the measurement of cypress pollen-specific IgE in highly selected patients. METHODS We analyzed 34 patients allergic to cypress pollen selected on the basis of a suggestive clinical history and positive skin test and nasal challenge responses to cypress pollen extract. We also analyzed 8 patients with positive skin test responses to cypress pollen extract who did not present symptoms during the pollen season (intermediate group) and 33 control subjects. Sensitivity, specificity, and efficiency of the Basotest and serum-specific IgE levels measured by using the CAP System were determined in patients allergic to cypress pollen. Histamine release was studied in a selected group of patients. RESULTS The Basotest was more sensitive (91.2%) than the CAP System (76%) for the in vitro diagnosis of cypress pollen allergy. A dose-response curve was observed in basophils obtained from patients allergic to cypress pollen. There were no false-positive results with either test (specificity 100%). The results of the Basotest or those of the CAP System did not correlate with the patients' in vivo threshold sensitivity assessed by skin tests and nasal challenge. CONCLUSIONS The Basotest was found to be an effective diagnostic test in patients allergic to cypress pollen.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Antibody Specificity
- Basophils/immunology
- Conjunctivitis, Allergic/blood
- Conjunctivitis, Allergic/diagnosis
- Conjunctivitis, Allergic/immunology
- Dose-Response Relationship, Immunologic
- Female
- Flow Cytometry/methods
- Histamine Release/immunology
- Humans
- Hypersensitivity, Immediate/blood
- Hypersensitivity, Immediate/diagnosis
- Hypersensitivity, Immediate/immunology
- Immunoglobulin E/blood
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Pollen/immunology
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal/blood
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal/diagnosis
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal/immunology
- Sensitivity and Specificity
- Skin Tests
- Trees/immunology
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Abstract
BACKGROUND There are increasing reports of Cupressaceae pollinosis from various geographic areas. Cross-reactivity among a limited number of species within the Cupressaceae family has been suggested. Juniperus ashei (mountain cedar) is the leading cause of respiratory allergy in South Texas. OBJECTIVE This study examines in vivo and in vitro cross-reactivity among 12 Cupressaceae species, one Taxodiaceae species, one Pinaceae species, and an angiosperm. METHODS Cross-reactivity among pollen extracts of mountain cedar (MC) and the other 14 trees was investigated by: (1) prick skin testing of each tree pollen extract in ten patients with MC pollinosis. (2) Ouchterlony gel immunodiffusion employing rabbit antisera to MC. (3) IgE immunoblotting using high-titer MC pooled human sera, and immunoblot inhibition after pre-incubation with MC protein. (4) Monoclonal antibody immunoblotting using a murine monoclonal antibody with strong affinity for the gp40 major allergen of MC. RESULTS Positive skin wheal-and-flare responses occurred to all 12 Cupressaceae and Japanese cedar (the Taxodiaceae), but not to the Pinaceae or the angiosperm. In Ouchterlony gels, lines of identity or partial identity formed between MC and all pollens except the Pinaceae and the angiosperm. Immunoblots demonstrated IgE binding to the 40 to 42 kD protein in each Cupressaceae, and to a parallel band in Japanese cedar at 43 to 46 kD. Immunoblot inhibition by MC pollen was complete for all trees. The monoclonal bound both the 40 to 42 kD protein in 11 of 12 Cupressaceae species and the 46 kD band in Japanese cedar, but bound no protein bands in the Pinaceae or the angiosperm. CONCLUSION Pollen proteins of the 12 Cupressaceae (including MC) and the Taxodiaceae (Japanese cedar) are extensively cross-reactive. In particular, the MC major allergen, gp40, is cross-reactive with 40 to 42 kD proteins of the other Cupressaceae and with the Japanese cedar major allergen of 46 kD. Component-based immunotherapy may someday allow a standard treatment for both Juniper-allergic and C. japonica-allergic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Schwietz
- Allergy-Immunology Department, Wilford Hall Medical Center, Lackland AFB, Texas, USA
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26
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Afferni C, Iacovacci P, Barletta B, Di Felice G, Tinghino R, Mari A, Pini C. Role of carbohydrate moieties in IgE binding to allergenic components of Cupressus arizonica pollen extract. Clin Exp Allergy 1999; 29:1087-94. [PMID: 10457113 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2222.1999.00590.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A reduction of IgE immunoreactivity after periodate-treatment has been previously reported for various glycoprotein allergens. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the role of glycan moiety of a C. arizonica extract in the binding of patients' IgE and to identify the carbohydrates possibly involved. METHODS The reactivity of IgE with C. arizonica extract, before and after periodate-treatment, was evaluated by immunoblotting and ELISA inhibition. The specificity of carbohydrate-reactive IgE was evaluated by ELISA using unrelated glycoproteins with known sugar composition and structure, such as pineapple bromelain, honeybee venom phospholipase A2, and ovalbumin, before and after periodate treatment. RESULTS When periodate-treated C. arizonica extract was probed after SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting with patients' IgE, no reactivity could be detected. Furthermore, a very poor inhibitory activity of the periodate-treated C. arizonica extract as compared with the untreated sample could be observed in the ELISA inhibition experiments performed using C. arizonica extract as antigen. When phospholipase A2 and bromelain were used as antigens in ELISA, they were recognized by patients' IgE, whereas ovalbumin was negative. Treatment of phospholipase A2 and bromelain with periodate completely abolishes the IgE reactivity. CONCLUSION A large portion of the IgE reactivity of Cupressaceae-allergic subjects appears to be associated with sugar moieties of C. arizonica extract which appear to be shared by bromelain and phospholipase A2, thus suggesting that the IgE of patients reacting with such epitopes probably react with beta 1 --> 2 xylose, alpha 1 --> 3 fucose and/or alpha 1 --> 6 fucose.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Afferni
- Department of Immunology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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27
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Barletta B, Tinghino R, Corinti S, Afferni C, Iacovacci P, Mari A, Pini C, Di Felice G. Arizona cypress (Cupressus arizonica) pollen allergens. Identification of cross-reactive periodate-resistant and -sensitive epitopes with monoclonal antibodies. Allergy 1998; 53:586-93. [PMID: 9689340 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.1998.tb03934.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Species of the Cupressaceae family are a worldwide cause of respiratory allergies. We used monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to investigate the presence and the nature of cross-reacting epitopes shared by various components within Cupressus arizonica pollen extract (CaE) or by CaE and pollen extract from C. sempervirens (CsE). mAbs were produced in mice immunized with whole CaE (4A6 and 5E6) or with the major allergen components (2D5). Their reactivity was investigated by ELISA and immunoblotting before and after CaE periodate treatment. Cross-reactivity was evaluated by ELISA inhibition and immunoblotting. mAbs 2D5 and 4A6 recognized periodate-resistant epitopes, whereas the mAb 5E6 reacted with a periodate-sensitive determinant. The former mAbs recognized epitopes present on CaE major allergen and also shared by other components. mAb 5E6 showed a spread reactivity on CaE, with exclusion of the major allergen. When the three mAbs were tested with CsE, a restricted pattern of reactivity to mAbs 2D5 and 4A6 was obtained, whereas mAb 5E6 maintained a spread reactivity. The CaE major allergen is represented by two components recognized by human IgE and sharing common epitopes, as proven by mAbs reactivity. The use of these mAbs demonstrates that cross-reactivity within CaE components and between CaE and CsE is due to the presence of periodate-sensitive as well as -resistant epitopes.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Barletta
- Department of Immunology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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28
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Mari A, Di Felice G, Afferni C, Barletta B, Tinghino R, Pini C. Cypress allergy: an underestimated pollinosis. Allergy 1997; 52:355-6. [PMID: 9140534 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.1997.tb01008.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Mari
- Department of Immunology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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Suzuki M, Komiyama N, Itoh M, Itoh H, Sone T, Kino K, Takagi I, Ohta N. Purification, characterization and molecular cloning of Cha o 1, a major allergen of Chamaecyparis obtusa (Japanese cypress) pollen. Mol Immunol 1996; 33:451-60. [PMID: 8676896 DOI: 10.1016/0161-5890(95)00147-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Pollen of Chamaecyparis obtusa (Japanese cypress) is one of the causes of allergic pollinosis in Japan. A major allergen of the pollen designated Cha o 1, was purified by two-step ion exchange chromatography. Cha o 1 was separated into four components with molecular masses of 48.5 kDa and 52.0 kDa, each with pIs of 6.77 and 6.82. The 23-residue N-terminal sequence of Cha o 1 was determined and shown to have high identity with that of Cry j 1, a major allergen of Cryptomeria japonica pollen. cDNA coding for Cha o 1 was cloned by hybridization screening using Cry j 1 cDNA as a probe. One of the cDNA clones, pCHA-1 was sequenced and found to code for a putative 21-residue signal peptide and a 354-residue native protein with a derived molecular mass of 38.1 kDa. The deduced amino acid sequence of Cha o 1 showed 79-80% identity with those of Cry j 1. These findings were consistent with observations of a close crossreaction between the two allergens. Homology analyses revealed that Cha o 1 had 46-49% identity with Amb a 1 families and Amb a 2, the major allergens of short ragweed. Cry j 1 has pectate lyase enzyme activity, suggesting that Cha o 1 may have the same enzyme activity as Cry j 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Suzuki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Nagoya City University Medical School, Japan
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30
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Caballero T, Romualdo L, Crespo JF, Pascual C, Muñoz-Pereira M, Martin-Esteban M. Cupressaceae pollinosis in the Madrid area. Clin Exp Allergy 1996; 26:197-201. [PMID: 8835128 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.1996.tb00080.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is no previous report of Cupressaceae pollinosis in the Madrid area. OBJECTIVE To ascertain the presence of Cupressaceae pollinosis in the Madrid area. METHODS Thirty-six patients were studied who had winter pollinosis symptoms and a positive skin test to C. arizonica. They were skin tested with C. sempervirens (Abelló, Madrid), C. arizonica (in-house extract) and other common inhalant allergens (Abelló). Total IgE was measured and specific IgE to C. arizonica, C. sempervirens and J. sabinoides was determined. RESULTS Six of the patients were only sensitized to Cupressaceae pollens, whereas 30 patients had also sensitivity to other pollens (oleaceae 28, plantain 27, grasses 25, chenopodium 25, compositae 23, Parietaria 9) and 18 patients were also sensitized to other inhalant allergens (animals 17, mites 4, moulds 2). CONCLUSION These results confirm the existence of allergy to Cupressaceae pollens in Madrid (Spain).
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Affiliation(s)
- T Caballero
- Servicio de Alergia, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
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