The immunochemistry of allergens: X. Anaphylactogenic properties of allergenic fractions from castor bean

Abstract

1. 1. The allergenic protein-polysaccharidic fraction, CB-1A, from castor bean was nontoxic and anaphylactogenic. 2. 2. The purified, carbohydrate-free fraction, CB-65A, had the same antigenic specificity as CB-1A. Fractions CB-1A and CB-65A contained a preformed protein native to castor bean and this protein was distinct from other proteins of the seed. 3. 3. The carbohydrate moiety of CB-1A did not influence antigenic specificity but did enhance the sensitizing capacity of the protein component. 4. 4. The protein component of fraction CB-1A was dialyzable and a protein with the same specificity was readily demonstrable in the dialyzate from unfractionated castor bean extract. An unidentified antigen was also detected in the dialyzate from the extract. 5. 5. Heat diminished the toxicity of aqueous castor bean extract but did not destroy an ulcerative factor. 6. 6. Alum adjuvant did not diminish the toxicity of castor bean extract when injected in guinea pigs.