Abstract
Immunoglobulin E-mediated food allergy is the result of a complex pathomechanism. Factors contributing to the dysfunction of the immune system are the allergenic sources and the variable matrix effects arising from the processes involved in interaction with the gastrointestinal tract, the allergens themselves through their structural features, and the specific behavior of the individual immune system. The starting point for elucidating the pathomechanism of food allergy is the identification of allergens and the description of their structure. They are the basis for in vitro diagnostics as well as the development of immunotherapeutic drugs. With regard to Class I food allergy, peanut allergy affects by far the largest group of patients. 11 allergens have been identified in peanuts. Ara h 1, Ara h 3, and Ara h 4 belong to the cupin superfamily, Ara h 2, Ara h 6, and Ara h 7 to the prolamin superfamily; Ara h 5 (profilins) and Ara h 8 (superfamily of Bet v 1-homologous proteins) are associated with aeroallergens. Peanut lipid transfer proteins (LTP) and two peanut oleosins are listed as Ara h 9, Ara h 10, and Ara h 11 by the IUIS Allergen Nomenclature Subcommittee. Peanut agglutinin (PNA) and a third oleosin have been shown to possess allergenic properties. The effect of the above specified allergens has to be considered in the context of their matrix, which is influenced by processing factors.
Highlights
The peanut (Arachis hypogaea) is one of 55 species in the genus Arachis which belongs to the legume familiy
well as the synthesis of IgE epitope representing peptides has allowed for a component-resolved diagnosis
by making possible the detection and quantifation of IgE antibodies that are specific for an allergenic protein
Summary
The peanut (Arachis hypogaea) is one of 55 species in the genus Arachis which belongs to the legume familiy. The peanut is not a nut, but a legume like pea or lupine. Peanuts extist in two subspecies: Arachis hypogaea hypogaea and Arachis hypogaea fastigata (http://www.uniprot.org/taxonomy/3818). Both are consumed as a food and their immunologic difference is only marginal. Arachis duranensis (Ara d) and Arachis ipaensis (Ara i) are important gene sources in peanut research. Allergens cloned in homology with Arachis hypogaea are over 90% identical and are only important for in silico investigation. The sources of peanut allergens are manifold and range from a slightly roasted whole peanut to a highly processed product in a snack
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