Identification of a cladosporium herbarum cell-wall allergen

Abstract

Methods: The phage surface–displayed cDNA library was prepared from the fungus, C. herbarum. The phage-displaying IgE-binding proteins were selectively enriched with immobilized serum IgE from C. herbarum-sensitized individuals. Inserts encoding putative allergens were sequenced, subcloned, and used to produce recombinant proteins. The allergenicity of the proteins was evaluated by IgE binding in Western blots, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and skin testing in a total of 84 patients sensitized to C. herbarum or Aspergillus fumigatus and three healthy controls.