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Cloning, expression, and immunological characterization of two novel profilins from Artemisia annua. Chin Med J (Engl) 2020; 134:1224-1226. [PMID: 33290286 PMCID: PMC8143747 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000001309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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2
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Purification and biochemical characterization of Hel a 6, a cross-reactive pectate lyase allergen from Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) pollen. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20177. [PMID: 33214682 PMCID: PMC7677321 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77247-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Sunflower pollen was reported to contain respiratory allergens responsible for occupational allergy and pollinosis. The present study describes the comprehensive characterization of a major sunflower allergen Hel a 6. Natural Hel a 6 was purified from sunflower pollen by anion exchange and gel filtration chromatography. Hel a 6 reacted with IgE-antibodies from 57% of 39 sunflower-sensitized patient sera suggesting it to be a major allergen. The patients were of Indian origin and suffering from pollinosis and allergic rhinitis. Hel a 6 exhibited allergenic activity by stimulating mediator release from basophils. Monomeric Hel a 6 displayed pectate lyase activity. The effect of various physicochemical parameters such as temperature, pH, and calcium ion on the functional activity of Hel a 6 revealed a stable nature of the protein. Hel a 6 was folded, and its melting curve showed reversible denaturation in which it refolded back to its native conformation from a denatured state. Hel a 6 displayed a high degree of sequence conservation with the pectate lyase allergens from related taxonomic families such as Amb a 1 (67%) and Art v 6 (57%). The IgE-cross reactivity was observed between Hel a 6 and its ragweed and mugwort homologs. The cross-reactivity was further substantiated by the mediator release when Hel a 6-sensitized effector cells were cross-stimulated with Art v 6 and Amb a 1. Several putative B cell epitopes were predicted and mapped on these 3 allergens. Two antigenic regions were found to be commonly shared by these 3 allergens, which could be crucial for cross-reactivity. In conclusion, Hel a 6 serves as a candidate molecule for diagnosis and immunotherapy for weed allergy.
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Purification and immunochemical characterization of Pla l 2, the profilin from Plantago lanceolata. Mol Immunol 2017; 83:100-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2017.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Major allergen from Amaranthus palmeri pollen is a profilin: Isolation, partial characterisation and IgE recognition. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2016; 44:160-6. [PMID: 26316420 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2015.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Revised: 05/01/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pollens represent a rich source of proteins that are also potential elicitors of IgE-mediated pollen allergy. Sensitisation to panallergens could play an important role in diagnosis and specific immunotherapy, because these molecules are present in different plant pollens and plant foods and have marked structural similarity in different species. Profilins are one of the most common panallergens to be studied because they are responsible for a large number of sensitisations and are clearly related to cross-reactivity and co-sensitisation. This study aimed to isolate and characterise a new allergen of Amaranthus palmeri pollen and to determine its allergenicity. METHODS A. palmeri pollen profilin was purified using poly-l-proline-Sepharose affinity chromatography followed by anion exchanger chromatography. Identification of purified protein was carried out by mass spectrometry. Specific IgE was estimated in sera of patients with positive skin prick test to A. palmeri pollen extract, by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Purified protein appeared as a single band at 14 kDa in SDS-PAGE gel. Mass spectrometric analysis of the gel band identified two highly conserved peptides corresponding to allergenic profilins from pollen of other plants. Sera from about 60% of allergic patients have IgE that recognises the purified A. palmeri protein. CONCLUSION A 14 kDa protein of A. palmeri pollen was purified and identified as allergenic profilin, which was recognised by sera from pollen allergic patients.
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Ghosh N, Sircar G, Saha B, Pandey N, Gupta Bhattacharya S. Search for Allergens from the Pollen Proteome of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.): A Major Sensitizer for Respiratory Allergy Patients. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0138992. [PMID: 26418046 PMCID: PMC4587886 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0138992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Respiratory allergy triggered by pollen allergens is increasing at an alarming rate worldwide. Sunflower pollen is thought to be an important source of inhalant allergens. Present study aims to identify the prevalence of sunflower pollinosis among the Indian allergic population and characterizes the pollen allergens using immuno-proteomic tools. METHODOLOGY Clinico-immunological tests were performed to understand the prevalence of sensitivity towards sunflower pollen among the atopic population. Sera from selected sunflower positive patients were used as probe to detect the IgE-reactive proteins from the one and two dimensional electrophoretic separated proteome of sunflower pollen. The antigenic nature of the sugar moiety of the glycoallergens was studied by meta-periodate modification of IgE-immunoblot. Finally, these allergens were identified by mass-spectrometry. RESULTS Prevalence of sunflower pollen sensitization was observed among 21% of the pollen allergic population and associated with elevated level of specific IgE and histamine in the sera of these patients. Immunoscreening of sunflower pollen proteome with patient sera detected seven IgE-reactive proteins with varying molecular weight and pI. Hierarchical clustering of 2D-immunoblot data highlighted three allergens characterized by a more frequent immuno-reactivity and increased levels of IgE antibodies in the sera of susceptible patients. These allergens were considered as the major allergens of sunflower pollen and were found to have their glycan moiety critical for inducing IgE response. Homology driven search of MS/MS data of these IgE-reactive proteins identified seven previously unreported allergens from sunflower pollen. Three major allergenic proteins were identified as two pectate lyases and a cysteine protease. CONCLUSION Novelty of the present report is the identification of a panel of seven sunflower pollen allergens for the first time at immuno-biochemical and proteomic level, which substantiated the clinical evidence of sunflower allergy. Further purification and recombinant expression of these allergens will improve component-resolved diagnosis and therapy of pollen allergy.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Allergens/immunology
- Allergens/metabolism
- Antigens, Plant/immunology
- Antigens, Plant/metabolism
- Case-Control Studies
- Electrophoresis, Gel, Two-Dimensional
- Female
- Helianthus/immunology
- Helianthus/metabolism
- Humans
- Hypersensitivity, Immediate/diagnosis
- Hypersensitivity, Immediate/immunology
- Hypersensitivity, Immediate/metabolism
- Immunoblotting
- Immunoglobulin E/immunology
- Immunoglobulin E/metabolism
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Plant Proteins/immunology
- Plant Proteins/metabolism
- Pollen/immunology
- Pollen/metabolism
- Proteome/analysis
- Proteomics/methods
- Respiratory System/immunology
- Respiratory System/metabolism
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal/diagnosis
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal/immunology
- Skin/immunology
- Skin/metabolism
- Tandem Mass Spectrometry
- Young Adult
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandini Ghosh
- Division of Plant Biology, Bose Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Gaurab Sircar
- Division of Plant Biology, Bose Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Bodhisattwa Saha
- Division of Plant Biology, Bose Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Naren Pandey
- Department of Allergy and Asthma, Belle Vue Clinic, Kolkata, India
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Quantification of Peach Fruit Allergen Lipid Transfer Protein by a Double Monoclonal Antibody-based Sandwich ELISA. FOOD ANAL METHOD 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s12161-015-0272-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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7
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Scientific Opinion on the evaluation of allergenic foods and food ingredients for labelling purposes. EFSA J 2014. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2014.3894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Gadermaier G, Hauser M, Ferreira F. Allergens of weed pollen: an overview on recombinant and natural molecules. Methods 2013; 66:55-66. [PMID: 23806644 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2013.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 06/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Weeds represent a botanically unrelated group of plants that usually lack commercial or aesthetical value. Pollen of allergenic weeds are able to trigger type I reactions in allergic patients and can be found in the plant families of Asteraceae, Amaranthaceae, Plantaginaceae, Urticaceae, and Euphorbiaceae. To date, 34 weed pollen allergens are listed in the IUIS allergen nomenclature database, which were physicochemically and immunologically characterized to varying degrees. Relevant allergens of weeds belong to the pectate lyase family, defensin-like family, Ole e 1-like family, non-specific lipid transfer protein 1 family and the pan-allergens profilin and polcalcins. This review provides an overview on weed pollen allergens primarily focusing on the molecular level. In particular, the characteristics and properties of purified recombinant allergens and hypoallergenic derivatives are described and their potential use in diagnosis and therapy of weed pollen allergy is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Gadermaier
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Allergy Diagnosis and Therapy, Department of Molecular Biology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Michael Hauser
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Allergy Diagnosis and Therapy, Department of Molecular Biology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Fatima Ferreira
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Allergy Diagnosis and Therapy, Department of Molecular Biology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
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Santos A, Van Ree R. Profilins: mimickers of allergy or relevant allergens? Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2011; 155:191-204. [PMID: 21293140 DOI: 10.1159/000321178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Profilins are ubiquitous proteins, present in all eukaryotic cells and identified as allergens in pollen, latex and plant foods. The highly conserved structure justifies the cross-reactive nature of IgE antibodies against plant profilins and their designation as pan-allergens. Primary sensitization to profilin seems to arise from pollen sensitization with later development of cross-reactive IgE antibodies against plant food (and possibly latex) profilins. The role of profilin in inducing allergic symptoms needs to be evaluated and raises important issues in allergy diagnosis due to cross-reactivity. IgE cross-reactivity among profilins is associated with multiple pollen sensitization and with various pollen-food syndromes. In respiratory allergy, sensitization to pollen to which the patient has virtually no environmental exposure has been identified as a manifestation of profilin sensitization. As a food allergen, profilin usually elicits mild reactions, such as oral allergy syndrome, is not modified by processing and is especially important in allergy to some fruits, such as melon, watermelon, banana, tomato, citrus fruit and persimmon. Purified natural and recombinant profilins for in vitro and in vivo allergy tests are helpful in the diagnostic work-up. Herein we review the current state of knowledge about the allergen profilin and its implications in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases. We conclude that, although its role in triggering allergic symptoms is still controversial, profilin is undoubtedly a relevant allergen. As a pan-allergen, profilin is associated with multiple pollen sensitization and pollen-food-latex syndromes that the allergist has to be aware of in order to accomplish an accurate diagnosis and successful treatment of allergic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Santos
- Departments of Experimental Immunology and Otorhinolaryngology, Amsterdam Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. alexandrafigueirasantos @ gmail.com
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Baroni MV, Alvarez JS, Wunderlin DA, Chiabrando GA. Analysis of IgE binding proteins of Celtis tala pollen. FOOD AGR IMMUNOL 2008. [DOI: 10.1080/09540100802190765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- María Verónica Baroni
- a Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica (CIBICI)-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Nacional de Córdoba , Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Jorge S. Alvarez
- b Servicio de Alergia e Inmunología, Instituto Oulton de Diagnóstico y Tratamiento , Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Daniel Alberto Wunderlin
- a Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica (CIBICI)-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Nacional de Córdoba , Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Alberto Chiabrando
- a Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica (CIBICI)-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas , Universidad Nacional de Córdoba , Córdoba, Argentina
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Wopfner N, Gruber P, Wallner M, Briza P, Ebner C, Mari A, Richter K, Vogel L, Ferreira F. Molecular and immunological characterization of novel weed pollen pan-allergens. Allergy 2008; 63:872-81. [PMID: 18588553 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2008.01635.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pan-allergens like profilins, calcium-binding proteins (CBPs), and nonspecific lipid transfer proteins have been suggested as possible specific markers for multiple pollen sensitizations, and could be used to predict cross-sensitization/poly-sensitization to several pollen allergens. Therefore, the purification and characterization of cross-reacting allergens in pollen is an extremely important task towards correct allergy diagnosis. METHODS New pan-allergens were identified by screening a ragweed pollen cDNA library with sera of patients allergic to mugwort pollen. Resulting proteins were cloned, expressed, purified and characterized. RESULTS We report complete cDNA sequences of two profilin isoforms (Amb a 8.01 and Amb a 8.02), two isoforms of a 2EF-hand CBP (Amb a 9.01 and Amb a 9.02), a new 3EF-hand CBP (Amb a 10) from ragweed pollen and a 2EF-hand CBP from mugwort (Art v 5). All these proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli, purified to homogeneity and characterized by biochemical and immunological means. CONCLUSIONS The identified proteins are novel pan-allergens and can be used as diagnostic markers for polysensitization and used in component-resolved diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Wopfner
- Department of Molecular Biology, Christian Doppler Laboratory for Allergy Diagnosis and Therapy, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
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Weber RW. Cross-reactivity of pollen allergens: impact on allergen immunotherapy. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2007; 99:203-11; quiz 212-3, 231. [PMID: 17910323 DOI: 10.1016/s1081-1206(10)60654-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide guidelines for the rational formulation of allergen immunotherapy extracts based on knowledge of pollen allergen and epitope cross-reactivity. DATA SOURCES A PubMed search was performed for articles published from 1966 to 2007 using the keywords pollen, allergen, and cross-reactivity. Older literature was found through cross-referencing of older articles and older reviews on pollen cross-reactivity. STUDY SELECTION Articles that dealt with crude pollen extracts and characterized allergens that addressed cross-reactivity were selected for inclusion in this review. RESULTS In addition to unique allergens, several families of botanic proteins have similarities that allow them to act as pan-allergens. Although frequently these are minor allergens, in some circumstances they may also be major allergens. Recent studies have investigated nonspecific lipid transfer proteins, calcium-binding proteins, pathogenesis-related protein families, and profilins. Calcium-binding proteins and nonspecific lipid transfer proteins are responsible for pollen-fruit interactions and pollen cross-reactivity. Clarification of pollen allergen enzymatic activity helps explain the ubiquitous nature of these proteins. CONCLUSION Characterization of specific pollen allergens and their protein families has provided insight into cross-reactivity. Clarification of these relationships allows for consolidation or substitution in formulation of inhalant extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W Weber
- National Jewish Medical & Research Center, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado, USA.
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Compés E, Hernández E, Quirce S, Palomares O, Rodríguez R, Cuesta J, Sastre J, Villalba M. Hypersensitivity to black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) pollen: "allergy mirages". Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2006; 96:586-92. [PMID: 16680930 DOI: 10.1016/s1081-1206(10)63554-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The allergenicity of the ornamental tree Robinia pseudoacacia, or black locust, is unknown. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence of sensitization to R. pseudoacacia pollen, its possible allergenic cross-reactivity with other common pollens, and the potential implication of pollen panallergens (profilin, polcalcin, and 1,3-beta-glucanase) as a cause of sensitization to R. pseudoacacia pollen. METHODS Skin prick testing with R. pseudoacacia pollen was performed in 149 patients with pollinosis. Nasal challenge with R. pseudoacacia pollen was performed in 10 patients. The prevalence of sensitization to the recombinant forms of profilin (rChe a 2), polcalcin (rChe a 3), and the N-terminal of the 1,3-beta-glucanase (rNtD of Ole e 9) was investigated. Immunoblotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and competitive inhibition assays were performed with R. pseudoacacia pollen and recombinant pollen allergens. RESULTS Sixty-four patients (43%) had positive skin prick test reactions to R. pseudoacacia pollen. Nasal challenge results were positive in 5 sensitized patients and negative in 4 controls and 1 sensitized patient. The allergenic profile of R. pseudoacacia pollen comprises at least the panallergen profilin, a calcium-binding protein, and a 1,3-beta-glucanase. The prevalence of sensitization to rChe a 2, rChe a 3, and rNtD of Ole e 9 was 60%, 33%, and 87%, respectively, among patients sensitized to R. pseudoacacia pollen. Binding of IgE to R. pseudoacacia extract was completely inhibited by Robinia, Chenopodium, Olea, Cupressus, and Lolium extracts. CONCLUSIONS The high prevalence of R. pseudoacacia pollen sensitization in patients with pollinosis is likely to be due to cross-sensitization to panallergens (profilin, polcalcin, and 1,3-beta-glucanase) from other common pollens. This phenomenon may lead to a diagnosis of "allergy mirages."
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Compés
- Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Allergy Department, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
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Weber RW. Cross-reactivity of pollen allergens: recommendations for immunotherapy vaccines. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2006; 5:563-9. [PMID: 16264339 DOI: 10.1097/01.all.0000191240.28255.ab] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review will summarize recent research on pollen allergen and epitope cross-reactivity. Knowledge of these relationships aids in the rational formulation of allergen immunotherapy vaccines. RECENT FINDINGS There has been further clarification of panallergens and their roles as both major and minor allergens. Recent studies have targeted non-specific lipid transfer proteins and calcium-binding proteins (polcalcins), as well as pathogenesis-related protein families and profilins. Polcalcins and non-specific lipid transfer proteins are responsible for pollen-fruit interactions as well as pollen cross-reactivity, in some cases, but not all, accounting for major allergenicity. Delineation of the enzymatic activity of certain allergens explains the ubiquitous nature of these pollen proteins. SUMMARY Characterization of specific pollen allergens and their protein families has provided insight into the grounds for cross-reactivity. Continuing clarification of these relationships will allow the substitution and consolidation of inhalant extracts as described in the conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W Weber
- National Jewish Medical and Research Center, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado, USA.
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Kao SH, Su SN, Huang SW, Tsai JJ, Chow LP. Sub-proteome analysis of novel IgE-binding proteins from Bermuda grass pollen. Proteomics 2005; 5:3805-13. [PMID: 16121337 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.200401229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) pollen (BGP) is one of the most common causes of airway allergic disease, and has been shown to contain over 12 allergenic proteins on 1-D immunoglobulin E (IgE) immunoblots. However, only a few allergens have been identified and characterized. Cyn d 1 is a major allergen and the most abundant protein in BGP, representing 15% of the whole-pollen extract. To investigate variability in the IgE-reactive patterns of BGP-sensitized patients and to identify other prevalent allergens, a BGP extract was passed through an affinity column to remove Cyn d 1, and the non-bound material was collected and analyzed by 2-DE. IgE-reactive proteins were subsequently characterized by immunoblotting using serum samples from ten BGP-allergic patients. The prevalent IgE-reactive proteins were identified by MALDI-TOF MS, N-terminal sequence similarity, and LC-MS/MS. Here, we present a sub-proteome approach for allergen investigation and its use for determining BGP 2-DE profiles and identifying six novel allergens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Hsuan Kao
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Asturias JA, Ibarrola I, Fernández J, Arilla MC, González-Rioja R, Martínez A. Pho d 2, a major allergen from date palm pollen, is a profilin: cloning, sequencing, and immunoglobulin E cross-reactivity with other profilins. Clin Exp Allergy 2005; 35:374-81. [PMID: 15784118 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2005.02179.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to now, some date palm pollen (DPP) allergens have been described but very few data are available about their molecular nature. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize Pho d 2, a major allergen from this pollen. METHODS Sera from 25 patients allergic to DPP were analysed by immunoblotting. Purification of DPP profilin was performed by poly-l-proline affinity chromatography. Profilin-encoding cDNA from DPP was cloned by using a RT-PCR strategy and recombinant allergen was expressed as a non-fusion protein in Escherichia coli. Natural and recombinant Pho d 2 were investigated by means of enzyme allergosorbent test to compare the immunologic properties of both allergens and to analyse cross-reactivity with other profilins. RESULTS A 14.4 kDa protein was identified as a major allergen in DPP extract. Purification, cloning, heterologous expression, and inhibition experiments identified it as profilin (Pho d 2). Pho d 2 comprises 131 amino acids and has high sequence identity with other allergenic food and pollen profilins. The prevalence of specific IgE antibody reactivity to natural Pho d 2 by ELISA was 56% and 64% by skin prick test (SPT). Pho d 2 is an important allergen as it is responsible for more than 70% of the IgE reactivity to the pollen extract. IgE directed against Pho d 2 showed a strong cross-reactivity with other profilins such as those from olive tree and grass pollens. CONCLUSION Pho d 2, a 14.4 kDa protein identified as profilin, is a major and relevant allergen in DPP, as confirmed by SPT and thereby may elicit clinical symptoms in sensitized patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Asturias
- Department of Research and Development, Bial-Arístegui, E-48008 Bilbao, Spain.
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Mothes N, Horak F, Valenta R. Transition from a Botanical to a Molecular Classification in Tree Pollen Allergy: Implications for Diagnosis and Therapy. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2004; 135:357-73. [PMID: 15583457 DOI: 10.1159/000082332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Tree pollens are among the most important allergen sources. Allergic cross-reactivity to pollens of trees from various plant orders has so far been classified according to botanical relationships. In this context, cross-reactivities to pollens of trees of the Fagales order (birch, alder, hazel, hornbeam, oak, chestnut), fruits and vegetables, between pollens of the Scrophulariales (olive, ash, plantain, privet, lilac) and pollens of the Coniferales (cedar, cypress, pine) are well established. The application of molecular biology methods for allergen characterization has revealed the molecular nature of many important tree pollen allergens. We review the spectrum of tree pollen allergens and propose a classification of tree pollen and related allergies based on major allergen molecules instead of botanical relationships among the allergenic sources. This molecular classification suggests the major birch pollen allergen, Bet v 1 as a marker for Fagales pollen and related plant food allergies, the major olive pollen allergen, Ole e 1, as a possible marker for Scrophulariales pollen allergy and the cedar allergens, Cry j 1 and Cry j 2, as potential markers for allergy to Coniferales pollens. We exemplify for Fagales pollen allergy and Bet v 1 that major marker allergens are diagnostic tools to determine the disease-eliciting allergen source. Information obtained by diagnostic testing with marker allergens will be important for the appropriate selection of patients for allergen-specific forms of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Mothes
- Center for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Department of Pathophysiology, Vienna General Hospital, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Gadermaier G, Dedic A, Obermeyer G, Frank S, Himly M, Ferreira F. Biology of weed pollen allergens. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2004; 4:391-400. [PMID: 15283880 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-004-0090-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Weeds represent a heterogeneous group of plants, usually defined by no commercial or aesthetic value. Important allergenic weeds belong to the plant families Asteraceae, Amaranthaceae, Urticaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Plantaginaceae. Major allergens from ragweed, mugwort, feverfew, pellitory, goosefoot, Russian thistle, plantain, and Mercurialis pollen have been characterized to varying degrees. Four major families of proteins seem to be the major cause of allergic reactions to weed pollen: the ragweed Amb a 1 family of pectate lyases; the defensin-like Art v 1 family from mugwort, feverfew, and probably also from sunflower; the Ole e 1-like allergens Pla l 1 from plantain and Che a 1 from goosefoot; and the nonspecific lipid transfer proteins Par j 1 and Par j 2 from pellitory. As described for other pollens, weed pollen also contains the panallergens profilin and calcium-binding proteins, which are responsible for extensive cross-reactivity among pollen-sensitized patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Gadermaier
- Department of Molecular Biology, Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstrasse 34, A-5020 Salzburg, Austria
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Abstract
Pollen cross-allergenicity has practical implications on the management of inhalant allergy, in both evaluation and therapy, especially with allergen vaccine immunotherapy. The study of cross-reactivity among pollen allergens has expanded beyond investigation of crude extracts to the characterization and cloning of numerous pollen proteins. In this review, the interrelationships between these pollen allergens in the context of botanical systematics are examined, to provide a framework for cross-reactivity understanding. Recommendations for choices in evaluation and therapy are given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W Weber
- National Jewish Medical and Research Center, Denver, CO 80206, USA.
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Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Dietetic products, nutrition and allergies [NDA] on a request from the Commission relating to the evaluation of allergenic foods for labelling purposes. EFSA J 2004. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2004.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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Díaz-Perales A, Blanco C, Sánchez-Monge R, Varela J, Carrillo T, Salcedo G. Analysis of avocado allergen (Prs a 1) IgE-binding peptides generated by simulated gastric fluid digestion. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2003; 112:1002-7. [PMID: 14610495 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2003.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Resistance to pepsin digestion has been claimed to be a characteristic of food allergens that can induce severe adverse reactions. Moreover, pepsin treatment is included in protocols to evaluate the potential allergenicity of transgenic foods. Allergenic plant class I chitinases, such as avocado Prs a 1, are the panallergens involved in the latex-fruit syndrome. Previous reports indicated their susceptibility to simulated gastric fluid (SGF) digestion. OBJECTIVE We sought to evaluate the IgE-binding capacity and the in vivo reactivity of the SGF products of the avocado allergen Prs a 1. METHODS Patients with a clinical history of latex-fruit allergy syndrome, a positive skin prick test (SPT) response to Prs a 1, and specific IgE to avocado were selected. Untreated and SGF-digested Prs a 1 samples were analyzed by means of IgE and IgG immunoblotting, IgE immunoblotting and ELISA-inhibition assays, and SPTs. Peptides from SGF-digested samples were fractionated by means of HPLC, characterized by N-terminal amino acid sequencing and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization analysis, and tested for in vivo reactivity with SPTs. RESULTS Neither protein staining nor IgE immunoblotting with a pool of sera from allergic patients resulted in the detection of any band after SDS-PAGE separation of an SGF-digested sample of Prs a 1. However, this sample showed a similar inhibitory potency to that of untreated Prs a 1 in both immunoblot- and ELISA-inhibition assays (up to 70% inhibition of the IgE binding to crude avocado extract) and induced positive SPT responses in 5 of 8 allergic patients. Peptides from SGF-digested Prs a 1 were separated by means of HPLC, and 4 of them reached more than 50% inhibition values when using avocado extract as the solid phase in ELISA-inhibition assays. Reactive peptides were located both in the N-terminal hevein-like domain and in the catalytic domain of Prs a 1. Those corresponding to the hevein-like domain (approximately 5100 d) produced positive SPT responses in 5 of 8 allergic patients, whereas 2 peptides located in the catalytic domain (approximately 1400 and 2500 d) were reactive in 2 or 3 of the 8 patients. CONCLUSION Prs a 1 was extensively degradated when subjected to SGF digestion. However, the resulting peptides, particularly those corresponding to the hevein-like domain, were clearly reactive both in vitro and in vivo.
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Abstract
Knowledge of patterns of pollen cross-reactivity is crucial for diagnostics and especially for formulation of immunotherapy vaccines in times of diminishing availability of pollen extract constituents. As phylogenetic relationships have become better clarified, it becomes apparent that cross-reactivity does reflect taxonomy in the very great majority of cases. Contradictory observations of unexpected cross-reactivity between unrelated plants, sometimes remarkably distant ones, require explanation. There are many proteins, presumably performing vital functions, that are tightly preserved throughout the evolutionary tree from plants to animals, such as profilins, lipid transfer proteins, and pathogenesis-related proteins. These might function as panallergens. The small differences that exist between these ubiquitous proteins explain why these are frequently minor allergens not reacting in the majority of allergic sera. This review summarizes cross-reactivity studies with both crude pollen extracts and purified or recombinant allergenic proteins. The patterns of cross-allergenicity that emerge should be helpful in guiding both diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W Weber
- National Jewish Medical and Research Center, Denver, CO 80206, USA
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Rodríguez-Perez R, Fernández-Rivas M, González-Mancebo E, Sánchez-Monge R, Díaz-Perales A, Salcedo G. Peach profilin: cloning, heterologous expression and cross-reactivity with Bet v 2. Allergy 2003; 58:635-40. [PMID: 12823124 DOI: 10.1034/j.1398-9995.2003.00198.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peach is among the main foods causing allergic reactions in the Mediterranean adult population. Only a single peach allergen, named Pru p 3, has been characterized. However, a potential role of profilin has also been suggested in grass pollen-associated allergy to peach. METHODS Complementary DNA clones for two different peach profilin isoforms were obtained by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction using non-degenerated primers. Expression of recombinant peach profilin was performed in Escherichia coli, and confirmed using rabbit polyclonal antibodies to sunflower pollen profilin. Twenty-nine individual sera from patients with peach allergy proved by double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges (DBPCFC), either with (n = 15) or without (n = 14) specific IgE to Bet v 2, were used in immunodetection assays to test recombinant peach profilin reactivity. RESULTS Each peach profilin cDNA included an open reading frame coding for a 131 amino acid protein. The peach profilin isoforms, designated Pru p 4.01 and Pru p 4.02, showed 80% of amino acid sequence identity, and were very similar (>70% identity) to allergenic profilins from plant foods and pollens. Recombinant Pru p 4.01 was expressed in E. coli as a nonfusion protein, displaying the expected molecular size and reacting with anti-profilin antibodies. rPru p 4.01 was recognized by all sera (15 of 15) with specific IgE to Bet v 2, whereas no sera (zero of 14) without IgE to this birch allergen reacted with rPru p 4.01. CONCLUSIONS Peach profilin Pru p 4 is very closed to other allergenic profilins from plant foods and pollens. A complete correlation between reactivity to rPru p 4 and rBet v 2 has been found in sera from peach allergic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Rodríguez-Perez
- Unidad de Alergia, Fundación Hospital Alcorcon, Madrid, Spain; Unidad de Bioquímica, Departamento de Biotecnología, E.T.S. Ingenieros Agrónomos, Madrid, Spain
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Rodriguez-Perez R, Crespo JF, Rodríguez J, Salcedo G. Profilin is a relevant melon allergen susceptible to pepsin digestion in patients with oral allergy syndrome. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2003; 111:634-9. [PMID: 12642849 DOI: 10.1067/mai.2003.74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melon allergy has been documented by means of double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges. The most common clinical feature associated with melon allergy is oral allergy syndrome (OAS). However, no relevant allergens of melon have been identified to date. OBJECTIVE We sought to identify melon allergens and analyze their digestibility in human saliva and simulated gastric fluid (SGF) to provide a rationale for the OAS. METHODS Melon, zucchini, cucumber, and watermelon allergens were identified by means of IgE immunoblotting of sera from 21 patients with OAS after melon ingestion confirmed by means of double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge. Further characterization was performed with rabbit antisera against sunflower pollen profilin and anticomplex glycans. Lability of allergens was assayed by incubation of melon extract in human saliva and SGF. RESULTS Several IgE-binding components between 15 and 60 kd and a main reactive band of 13 kd were detected in melon extract with the pooled sera from patients with melon allergy. As in melon, 13-kd components of zucchini, cucumber, and watermelon extracts were strongly recognized by the IgE antibodies of the patients with melon allergy and were identified as profilins. Putative cross-reacting carbohydrate determinants were also detected. Sera from 71% of patients recognized the melon profilin, and therefore profilin is considered a major allergen. Melon allergens were unaffected by crude human saliva. In contrast, most melon proteins, predominantly the 13-kd component (profilin), were quickly digested in the SGF. CONCLUSION In patients with OAS, a 13-kd protein identified as a profilin is a major melon allergen highly susceptible to pepsin digestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Rodriguez-Perez
- Unidad de Bioquímica, Departamento de Biotecnología, E.T.S. Ingenieros Agrónomos, Madrid; and Servicio de Alergia, Hospital Universitario Doce de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
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Martínez A, Asturias JA, Monteseirín J, Moreno V, García-Cubillana A, Hernández M, de la Calle A, Sánchez-Hernández C, Pérez-Formoso JL, Conde J. The allergenic relevance of profilin (Ole e 2) from Olea europaea pollen. Allergy 2002; 57 Suppl 71:17-23. [PMID: 12173264 DOI: 10.1034/j.1398-9995.2002.057s71017.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Many works have dealt with the study of the allergenic relevance of profilin from allergenic extracts, mainly derived from pollens and vegetable foods. Olive pollen extracts also contain a profilin allergen (Ole e 2). This protein has been characterized in detail, so the amino-acid sequence of three isoforms and the structural model of one of them are already known. The prevalence of Ole e 2 for olive allergenic patients has been evaluated by different in vivo and in vitro methods, and the results compared with those obtained for another pollen profilins.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Martínez
- Hospital Virgen Macarena, Servicio de Alergia, Ville, Spain
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Wopfner N, Willeroidee M, Hebenstreit D, van Ree R, Aalbers M, Briza P, Thalhamer J, Ebner C, Richter K, Ferreira F. Molecular and immunological characterization of profilin from mugwort pollen. Biol Chem 2002; 383:1779-89. [PMID: 12530543 DOI: 10.1515/bc.2002.199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In late summer in Europe, pollen of mugwort is one of the major sources of atopic allergens. No information about the complete molecular structure of any mugwort allergen has been published so far. Here we report the isolation and characterization of mugwort pollen cDNA clones coding for two isoforms of the panallergen profilin. Thirty-six percent of the mugwort-allergic patients tested displayed IgE antibodies against natural and recombinant profilin, and no significant differences were observed in the IgE-binding properties of the isoforms. One profilin isoform was purified to homogeneity and detailed structural analysis indicated that the protein exists in solution as dimers and tetramers stabilized by sulfydryl and/or ionic interactions. Profilin monomers were detectable only after exposure of multimers to harsh denaturing conditions. Dimers and tetramers did not significantly differ in their ability to bind serum IgE from mugwort pollen-allergic patients. However, oligomeric forms might have a higher allergenic potential than monomers because larger molecules would have additional epitopes for IgE-mediated histamine release. Profilin isolated from mugwort pollen also formed multimers. Thus, oligomerization is not an artifact resulting from the recombinant production of the allergen. Inhibition experiments showed extensive IgE cross-reactivity of recombinant mugwort profilin and profilin from various pollen and food extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Wopfner
- Institute of Genetics, University of Salzburg, A-5020 Salzburg, Austria
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Díaz-Perales A, Tabar AI, Sánchez-Monge R, García BE, Gómez B, Barber D, Salcedo G. Characterization of asparagus allergens: a relevant role of lipid transfer proteins. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2002; 110:790-6. [PMID: 12417890 DOI: 10.1067/mai.2002.128242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No asparagus allergen has been characterized to date. Lipid transfer proteins (LTPs) have an ubiquitous distribution in plant foods and have been identified as relevant allergens in some fruits, seeds, and pollens. OBJECTIVE We sought to identify asparagus allergens and to evaluate the potential involvement of the panallergen LTP family in asparagus allergy. METHODS Eighteen patients with asthma, anaphylaxis, and/or contact urticaria after asparagus ingestion or exposure and positive skin prick test (SPT) responses and serum-specific IgE levels to asparagus were selected. Two LTPs were isolated from crude asparagus extract by using chromatographic methods and characterized by means of N-terminal amino acid sequencing. Both isolated proteins were tested by means of immunodetection, CAP inhibition assays, and SPTs. Additional asparagus allergens were located by using immunodetection with a pool of sera from patients allergic to asparagus and with rabbit polyclonal antibodies to sunflower pollen profilin and anti-complex asparagine-linked glycans antibodies. RESULTS The purified LTPs showed an N-terminal amino acid sequence similar to that of Pru p 3 and a strong reaction to anti-Pru p 3 antibodies. Each isolated protein reached inhibition values of up to 60% in CAP inhibition assays against asparagus extracts and elicited positive SPT responses in 9 of 18 patients with asparagus allergy. Immunodetection assays allowed us to identify profilin and cross-reacting carbohydrate determinants as asparagus IgE-binding components. CONCLUSION Asparagus LTPs are relevant allergens. In addition, profilin and glycoproteins harboring complex asparagine-linked glycans can also be involved in asparagus allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Araceli Díaz-Perales
- Unidad de Bioquímica, Departamento de Biotecnología, E.T.S. Ingenieros Agrónomos, Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
The present state of proteomics research is generally outlined and the character of allergenic compounds briefly elucidated. The principles of experimental approaches to isolation, purification, identification and characterization of allergens and to monitoring of their biological activity are described, with emphasis on the most modern methods. Selected examples are given for illustration and important results are summarized in tables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Tichá
- Department of Biochemistry, Charles University, Faculty of Sciences, Albertov 2030, 128 40 Prague 2, Czech Republic
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Asturias JA, Ibarrola I, Bartolomé B, Ojeda I, Malet A, Martínez A. Purification and characterization of Pla a 1, a major allergen from Platanus acerifolia pollen. Allergy 2002; 57:221-7. [PMID: 11906336 DOI: 10.1034/j.1398-9995.2002.03406.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plane trees, as Platanus acerifolia, are an important source of airborne allergens in cities of the United States and Western Europe. Little is known about the relevant allergens of this pollen. The aim of this study was to identify relevant allergens from P. acerifolia pollen and purify and characterize a major allergen of 18 kDa. METHODS P. acerifolia pollen extract was fractionated using ion exchange, gel filtration, and reverse-phase chromatography. Analyzes were carried out by EAST, SDS-PAGE, isoelectric focusing, immunoblotting and amino-acid sequencing. RESULTS An 18-kDa protein from the P. acerifolia pollen extract, which we named Pla a 1, was purified. This nonglycosylated protein had an isoelectric point value higher than 9.3 and was recognized by up to 92% of monosensitized Platanus allergic patients and 83% of polyzensitized patients. Sequencing of its N-terminal yielded an amino acid sequence which showed no homology to the known proteins in the databases. Other relevant allergens detected in monosensitized patients were proteins of 43 and 52 kDa, with immunoglobulin (Ig)E-binding prevalences of 83 and 42%, respectively. Profilin was an important allergen in polyzensitized patients. CONCLUSIONS The most relevant allergens from the P. acerifolia pollen have been determined. A major allergen, specific of this pollen, and named Pla a 1, has been purified and characterized.
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Hill PB, DeBoer DJ. The ACVD task force on canine atopic dermatitis (IV): environmental allergens. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2001; 81:169-86. [PMID: 11553378 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-2427(01)00298-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Numerous environmental allergens have been incriminated in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis (AD). These include dust and storage mite antigens, house dust, pollens from grasses, trees and weeds, mould spores, epidermal antigens, insect antigens, and miscellaneous antigens such as kapok. In this paper, we review the literature concerning the allergens that have been reported to contribute to canine AD. We conclude that attempts to identify the relevant canine antigens in the past have been plagued by a lack of standardisation of extracts and techniques, and the presence of false-positive and -negative reactions in allergy tests. Until these problems are rectified, it is unlikely that we will be able to provide a list of major and minor antigens for dogs. Hence, we recommend that future studies should be aimed at determining the major patterns of reactivity and cross-reactivity to specific protein allergens within antigenic extracts using electrophoresis and immunoblotting techniques. Once this information becomes available, it may be possible to use a selection of genetically engineered, highly pure antigens for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in canine allergy investigations. The use of such antigens will allow standardisation of canine allergy testing and immunotherapy so that the reliability and efficacy of these procedures can be objectively assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- P B Hill
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Hospital for Small Animals, Easter Bush Veterinary Centre, Roslin, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, Scotland, UK.
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Scheurer S, Wangorsch A, Nerkamp J, Skov PS, Ballmer-Weber B, Wüthrich B, Haustein D, Vieths S. Cross-reactivity within the profilin panallergen family investigated by comparison of recombinant profilins from pear (Pyr c 4), cherry (Pru av 4) and celery (Api g 4) with birch pollen profilin Bet v 2. JOURNAL OF CHROMATOGRAPHY. B, BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES AND APPLICATIONS 2001; 756:315-25. [PMID: 11419723 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-4347(01)00090-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Profilin is a panallergen which is recognised by IgE from about 20% of birch pollen- and plant food-allergic patients. Little is known about epitope diversity among these homologous proteins, and about the correlation between IgE-cross-reactivity and allergenic reactivity. Plant food profilins from pear (Pyr c 4) and cherry (Pru av 4) were cloned by polymerase chain reaction and produced in Escherichia coli BL21. The profilins were purified as non-fusion proteins by affinity chromatography on poly-(L-proline)-Sepharose and characterized by immunoblotting, IgE-inhibition experiments and histamine release assays. The coding regions of the cDNA of pear and cherry profilin were identified as a 393 bp open reading frame. The deduced amino acid sequences showed high identities with birch pollen profilin Bet v 2 (76-83%) and other allergenic plant profilins. Pyr c 4 and Pru av 4 were investigated for their immunological properties in comparison with profilins from celery (Api g 4) and birch pollen (Bet v 2). Fourty-three of 49 patients (88%), preselected for an IgE-reactivity with Bet v 2 showed specific IgE-antibodies to the recombinant pear protein, 92% of the sera were positive with the recombinant cherry allergen and 80% of the sera were reactive with the celery protein. Inhibition experiments showed a strong cross-reactivity of IgE with profilins from plant food and birch pollen. However, IgE binding profiles also indicated the presence of epitope differences among related profilins. All investigated profilins, Pyr c 4, Pru av 4, Api g 4 and Bet v 2, presented almost identical allergenic properties in cellular mediator release tests. Therefore, cross-reactivities between related profilins may explain pollen-related allergy to food in a minority of patients. The nucleotide sequences reported have been submitted to the Genbank database under accession numbers AF129424 (Pyr c 4) and AF129425 (Pru av 4).
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Affiliation(s)
- S Scheurer
- Department of Allerology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
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Scheurer S, Wangorsch A, Haustein D, Vieths S. Cloning of the minor allergen Api g 4 profilin from celery (Apium graveolens) and its cross-reactivity with birch pollen profilin Bet v 2. Clin Exp Allergy 2000; 30:962-71. [PMID: 10848918 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2222.2000.00821.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Profilin is a panallergen that is recognized by IgE from about 20% of birch pollen- and plant food-allergic patients. A subgroup of celery-allergic patients shows IgE-reactivity with this minor allergen. To investigate the IgE-binding potential and cross-reactivity of celery profilin at the molecular level, this study was aimed at the cloning and immunological characterization of this allergen. OBJECTIVES Cloning, expression and purification of profilin from celery tuber to characterize its immunological properties and its cross-reactivity with birch pollen profilin. METHODS Cloning of celery profilin was performed by polymerase chain reaction using degenerated primers and a 5'RACE method for the identification of the unknown 5'-end of the cDNA. Expression was carried out in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) using a modified vector pET-30a. The recombinant profilin was purified by affinity chromatography on poly L-proline coupled to sepharose. Immunological characterization was performed by immunoblotting, EAST and IgE-inhibition experiments. RESULTS The coding region of the cDNA of celery profilin was identified as a 399-bp open reading frame, coding for a protein of 133 amino acids with a calculated molecular weight of 14.3 kDa. The deduced amino acid sequence of the corresponding protein showed high identity with other plant profilins (71-82%) recently described as allergens. Celery profilin was isolated as highly pure nonfusion protein. The IgE-reactivity of celery profilin was similar to that of natural protein. Seven of 17 celery-allergic patients tested presented specific IgE-antibodies to the recombinant protein tested by immunoblotting. Inhibition experiments showed high cross-reactivity of IgE with both profilins from celery and birch pollen. Moreover, the biological activity of recombinant celery profilin was demonstrated by a histamine release assay. CONCLUSIONS Celery profilin is an important allergenic compound in celery and shows high homology to birch pollen profilin, Bet v 2. According to the revised IUIS allergen nomenclature, we suggest naming the celery profilin Api g 4. In addition to the cross-reacting major allergens Api g 1 and Bet v 1, birch pollinosis and associated allergies to celery can therefore additionally be explained by the cross-reactivity between homologous profilins. Moreover, recombinant Api g 4 may be used for target-specific diagnosis and structural analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Scheurer
- Paul Ehrlich Institute, Department of Allergology, Paul Ehrlich Street 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany
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Asturias JA, Arilla MC, Aguirre M, Gómez-Bayón N, Martínez A, Palacios R, Sánchez-Gascón F, Martínez J. Quantification of profilins by a monoclonal antibody-based sandwich ELISA. J Immunol Methods 1999; 229:61-71. [PMID: 10556691 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-1759(99)00115-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Profilins are plant allergens responsible for cross-reactivities in pollen and fruit-allergic patients. A two-site enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay has been developed for the quantification of profilins and its suitability for quantifying profilin in different plant extracts has been evaluated. The assay is based on two profilin-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with different epitope specificities. These antibodies were immobilized on ELISA plates and incubated with samples containing profilin. Bound profilin was detected by a combination of biotinylated profilin-specific antiserum and peroxidase-streptavidin conjugate. The optimized ELISA measured profilin concentrations ranging from 4 to 250 ng/ml and could quantify profilins from plant species of a variety of different botanical families. No reactivity to mites, molds, or crustaceans was detected, suggesting that the immunoassay is plant-specific. The results indicate that this sensitive profilin-assay will be helpful both for quantifying the profilin content of allergenic extracts intended for clinical use and for studying cross-reactivities between pollen extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Asturias
- R&D Department, Bial-Arístegui, Alameda Urquijo, 27, 48008, Bilbao, Spain.
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Cuesta-Herranz J, Lázaro M, Martínez A, Figueredo E, Palacios R, de-Las-Heras M, Martínez J. Pollen allergy in peach-allergic patients: sensitization and cross-reactivity to taxonomically unrelated pollens. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999; 104:688-94. [PMID: 10482847 DOI: 10.1016/s0091-6749(99)70343-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fruit allergy has been attributed to cross-reactive IgE to pollens and has been associated with a particular pollen sensitization. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to evaluate sensitization to several taxonomically unrelated pollens in peach- and pollen-allergic patients and to study cross-reactivity between them. METHODS One hundred sixty-five patients were evaluated: 70 peach- allergic patients together with 95 pollen-allergic patients (control group). Pollen skin tests in duplicate were performed to 5 grasses, 8 trees, and 7 weeds. Cross-reactivity between peach and taxonomically diverse pollens was determined by radioallergosorbent inhibition and Western blot inhibition tests. Experiments were also carried out after preadsorption of the sera with purified natural profilin. RESULTS The skin test results revealed that peach-allergic patients frequently reacted to most pollens-grasses, weeds, and trees-even when some of these are not found in our geographic area. There was a statistically significant increase in sensitization frequency to most trees and weeds, with a statistically higher occurrence of asthma (odds ratio 2.98, 95% confidence interval 1.46-6.09). Inhibition test results provided evidence that taxonomically unrelated grasses, weeds, and trees produced various and substantial degrees of inhibition in specific IgE to peach and that the peach extract elicited strong inhibitions to those pollens. Profilin was found to be a relevant cross-reactive antigen in these patients. CONCLUSION The results of this study provide evidence that peach allergy is linked to sensitization to several taxonomically unrelated pollens. This is attributable to the ubiquitous nature of the IgE binding determinants-such as profilins-between peach and taxonomically unrelated pollens.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Cuesta-Herranz
- Allergy Department, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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