Allergenic Potential Research Articles

Allergenic Potential of Common Hops (Humulus lupulus L.) in the Context of Cross-Reactions with Pollen Allergens

Background: Common hops (Humulus lupulus L.) play a key role in brewing, providing the bitterness, flavor, and aroma of beer, and are widely used in supplements for their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. However, despite their broad applications, the allergenic potential of common hops remains underexplored, particularly when compared to the closely related Humulus japonicus. This preliminary study aimed to investigate the allergenic potential of common hops and their potential cross-reactivity with common pollen allergens. Methods: The immunoreactivity of hop stalks, leaves, and cones was assessed using antibodies against major allergens from birch (Bet v1a), mugwort (Art v1), and timothy grass (Phl p5b), as well as three sera from pollen-allergic patients. Slot Blot analysis was performed using phosphate-buffered saline extracts from the stalks, leaves, and cones of three hop cultivars, while Western Blotting followed SDS-PAGE protein separation. Results: The results revealed significant immunoreactivity in native hop proteins, with diminished reactivity observed in denatured proteins. Cross-reactivity between hop proteins and major pollen allergens was confirmed, indicating that hop proteins may contribute to allergic sensitization in pollen-sensitive individuals. Conclusions: These findings underscore the potential allergenic risks associated with the consumption or exposure to hop-containing products.

Hydrolysates of mare's milk proteins. Immunochemical and physico-chemical characteristics

In recent years, the attention of specialists has been attracted by a significant increase in allergic diseases, especially among children. Enzymatic hydrolysis with the participation of peptidases is considered the most effective measure to reduce the allergenicity of milk proteins. The study of the features of protein proteolysis by various enzymes, aimed at establishing optimal process parameters, is the subject of research in the production of hydrolysates with specified properties: a certain peptide and amino acid profile, reduced antigenic properties. At the same time, for a correct preclinical assessment of the safety and potential effectiveness of specialized food products, it is not enough only to determine the molecular weight distribution of peptide fractions in the composition. A necessary additional and informative indicator of reducing the potential allergenicity of the hydrolysate is the degree of preservation of the antigenic properties of the initial protein (residual antigenicity), determined by immunochemical methods. The preparation and subsequent comprehensive assessment of enzymatic hydrolysates of mare's milk proteins is of considerable interest, since, according to the results of clinical studies, it was suggested that upon allergy to cow's milk proteins mare's milk can be considered hypoallergenic. The purpose of this work was to obtain enzymatic hydrolysates of mare's milk proteins using domestic enzymes and their further physico-chemical and immunochemical characteristics. The object of the study was mare's milk protein obtained from skimmed mare's milk powder as a protein substrate. Two samples of enzymes from various manufacturers of the Russian Federation were used in the work. The results of the conducted studies show that the peptide profiles of hydrolysates vary greatly depending on the enzyme used, however, the multiplicity of antigenicity reduction practically does not depend on the nature of the enzyme, and does not depend on an increase in the enzyme/substrate ratio. The peptide profile and the multiplicity of reducing the antigenicity of hydrolysates of mare's milk proteins are influenced by ultrafiltration treatment of the obtained hydrolysates, which allows reducing the content of antigenic structures in the final product by several orders of magnitude.

Enhanced immunomodulatory properties of ovalbumin through transglutaminase and tyrosinase/caffeic acid-catalyzed crosslinking plus galactomannan conjugation alleviates allergic asthma

Ovalbumin (OVA) is the primary allergenic protein, associated with T helper 2 (Th2)-mediated allergy reactions. Here, we studied OVA’s conformational structure, digestibility, and allergenic potency upon galactomannan (Man) conjugation along with transglutaminase-catalyzed crosslinking (TG-Man/OVA) and tyrosinase/caffeic acid-catalyzed crosslinking (Tyr-Man/OVA). Enzymatic glycosylation altered OVA’s conformation and enhanced the gastrointestinal digestibility. Stimulation of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) with enzymatically glycosylated OVA reduced the expression of CD40, CD80, CD86 and MHC class II molecules. Furthermore, glycosylated OVA increased IL-10 production while suppressing proinflammatory cytokine production in BMDCs. In an OVA-induced mouse asthma model, TG-Man/OVA and Tyr-Man/OVA upregulated IFN-γ and IL-10 expression and downregulated IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 in lungs. Crosslinked OVA diminished infiltrated cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung and attenuated eosinophilic airway inflammation. These findings offer valuable insights into the development of a novel product with improved hypoallergenic and immunomodulatory properties and hold promise in attenuating allergic diseases.

Impact of different food-grade protein extraction methods on the proteomic profile and potential allergenicity of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis)

Various optimized methods for cell disintegration and protein extraction of algae have been reported, but there is a lack of information regarding the proteomic characterization of the extracted proteins; thus, systematic verification of the protein profiles to find potentially exploitable proteins, while minimizing allergenicity risks, is profitable. The method described in this study was developed to thoroughly investigate the proteome characterization of A. platensis following aqueous protein extraction by high-shear homogenization and pH shift. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was applied to assess the proteome obtained from four protein extraction methods using data-dependent proteome analysis. Overall, 699 proteins were identified; however, each extraction method identified unique proteins. The maximum number of exclusive proteins was observed using a combination of high-shear homogenization and acidic pH. The evaluation of protein abundance revealed a clear distinction between proteins isolated from pH 2 treatment compared to those obtained via neutral or basic pH treatment. The applied extraction methods affected the in silico computed physicochemical properties of the proteins. Using the AllerCatPro database, 12 putative allergenic proteins were detected, the most predominant of which were related to the C-phycocyanin beta subunit (P72508). This study demonstrated that extraction methods affect the detection, physicochemical properties, and potential allergenicity of the obtained proteins. Hence, the extraction methods used to obtain novel proteins must consider these aspects before using them as functional foods.

Microarray-based evaluation of selected recombinant timothy grass allergens expressed in E. Coli and N. Benthamiana

BackgroundTimothy grass (Phleum pratense) is a significant source of allergens, and recombinant allergens are increasingly used for diagnostic purposes. However, the performance of different recombinant allergen production systems in diagnostic assays needs further investigation to optimize their use in clinical settings.ObjectiveThe main objective of this study was to analyze and compare the diagnostic performance of recombinant timothy grass allergens produced in E. coli and N. benthamiana using a custom-made microarray chip.MethodsRecombinant timothy grass allergens Phl p 1, Phl p 2, Phl p 5, Phl p 6, Phl p 11, and Phl p 12 were produced in E. coli and/or N. benthamiana. A total of 113 patient serum samples were tested to evaluate the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, inter-assay variability, and correlation of allergen-specific IgE detection compared to commercial multiplex tests (ALEX and ISAC). Additionally, the prevalence of sIgE to these allergens was assessed.ResultsPhl p 1, Phl p 2, Phl p 5, Phl p 6 and Phl p 11 showed high or very high positive correlation in immunoreactivity with other commercial multiplex tests. Notably, Phl p 11 fused with maltose-binding protein (MBP) demonstrated high diagnostic specificity and sensitivity, with a 0.3 arbitrary cut-off value. However, a high intra-assay variation was observed. The study also assessed specific IgE prevalence to timothy grass allergens within the tested patient cohort.ConclusionsRecombinant allergens from both E. coli and N. benthamiana demonstrated strong diagnostic potential on the microarray platform, with Phl p 11 (MBP-fused) showing particularly high performance. High intra-assay variation highlights the need for further optimization in allergen formulation and microarray storage conditions. These results highlight the potential of recombinant allergens for diagnostic applications, despite challenges with allergen stability in microarray formats. Specific IgE prevalence to timothy allergens revealed a sensitization profile consistent with findings from multiple studies.Graphical

Биологически активные гидролизаты белков молока и их комплексы включения с циклодектринами

Enzymatic hydrolysis of dairy proteins increases their nutritional and biological value while reducing their allergenic potential. The subsequent complexation of peptides with cyclodextrins (CDs) reduces the bitterness of the hydrolyzed proteins. The research objective was to obtain hydrolysates of whey proteins and their cyclodextrin inclusion complexes with peptides, as well as to describe the peptide composition of the cleaved dairy proteins, biological activity, and sensory profile of the hydrolysates and inclusion complexes. The research featured enzymatic whey protein hydrolysates with an extensive hydrolysis degree and their inclusion complexes with β- and γ-CDs. Dairy proteins were hydrolyzed with alcalase, and the hydrolysates obtained were subjected to micro- and ultrafiltration (cut-off limit – 10 kDa). The peptide composition of the hydrolyzed proteins was determined by the methods of high-performance liquid chromatography and chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antimutagenic activity was evaluated using the Ames test whereas the antibacterial effect was studied with the impedimetric method. The antioxidant activity was detected with fluorimetry and spectrophotometry. The method of competitive enzyme immunoassay was applied to reveal the antigenic properties. The bitterness of the experimental sample s was determined by a sensory evaluation. The research delivered the optimal modes for whey protein cleavage with alcalase that made it possible to achieve efficient micro- and ultrafiltration. The resulting hypoallergenic peptide fractions and their inclusion complexes with β- and γ-CDs possessed antioxidant, antibacterial, and antimutagenic properties. The whey proteolysis and subsequent filtration with/without tindalization demonstrated a 265/589-fold decrease in the residual antigenicity. The fluorimetric method showed a 1.79/1.90-fold increase in the antioxidant activity of the hydrolysate in complexes with β- and γ-CDs. Binding of β-CDs to peptides enhanced their antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli ATCC 8739 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538. The hydrolysate samples with β-CDs showed less bitterness. Whey proteolysis with alcalase under optimized conditions and subsequent fractionation resulted in a product with high consumer qualities. Enzymatic hydrolysates of dairy proteins and their CD inclusion complexes were able to substitute native protein components. Their bioactive properties, good taste, and low allergenic potential mean good prospects for the functional food industry.

Allergic Potential & Molecular Mechanism of Skin Sensitization of Cinnamaldehyde Under Environmental UVB Exposure

Fragrance, a key ingredient in cosmetics, often triggers skin allergy causes rashes, itching, dryness, and cracked or scaly skin. Cinnamaldehyde (CA), derived from the bark of the cinnamon tree, used as a fragrance and is a moderate skin sensitizer. CA exhibits strong UVB absorption, its allergic potential and the molecular mechanisms underlying skin sensitization under UVB exposure remain largely unexplored. To investigate the allergic potential and molecular mechanisms of CA-induced skin sensitization under ambient UVB radiation, we employed various alternative in-silico, in-chemico and in-vitro tools. CA under ambient UVB isomerizes from trans to cis CA after 1hr of exposure. Furthermore, DPRA assay and docking with simulation studies demonstrated the enhanced allergic potential of cis-CA. Additionally, our study evaluated intracellular ROS levels and the expression of Nrf2, Catalase, and MMP-2, and 9 in KeratinoSens cells, showing significant upregulation under UVB exposure in the presence of CA. Moreover, our findings indicate that CA activates THP-1 cells co-stimulatory surface marker (CD86) via the activation of intracellular ROS, phagocytosis, and genes of the TLR4 pathway. These insights into the mechanisms uncovered by our study are crucial for managing triggers of allergic skin diseases caused by fragrance use and concurrent exposure to environmental UVB/sunlight.

Trends in land cover and in pollen concentration of Quercus genus in Alentejo, Portugal: Effects of climate change and health impacts

Mediterranean forests dominated by Quercus species are of great ecological and economic value. The Quercus pollen season, peaking in April, varies in concentration due to geographical and climatic factors and has a remarkable allergenic potential. This study investigates Quercus trends in the Alentejo region of Portugal and examines the influence of meteorological parameters on DPC, PSD and SPIn, as well as the impact on allergic respiratory disease. The results show a progressive increase in Quercus Forest area from 1995 to 2018. Temperature and Precipitation are a key factor influencing pollen concentration, especially before peak of pollen season and prior to the pollen season. Particularly prior to the season, the precipitation of t-6 before influence, significantly, the pollen production. On the other hand, Global Srad and RH determine the beginning of the season. Using quartile-based categorization and multivariate statistical analysis, we identified years and scenarios within the IPCC projections where meteorological conditions influence may SPIn production. The study found a statistically significant correlation between high Quercus pollen concentrations in April and increased antihistamine sales. These findings are crucial for enhancing pollen forecast models and early warning systems.

Pollen Cross-Reactivity: A Primer for Allergy Specialists

There are over 400,000 land-based plant species that comprise our biodiverse habitat. Only a small subset of those plant species satisfies Thommen’s postulates, classifying them as allergens. The number of allergenic species, however, remains so vast that it is prohibitive to both test and treat for all relevant species within a geographical region. Allergy specialists have a valuable tool that can be used to help simplify the management of allergic patients: cross-reactivity. Cross-reactivity is the ability for an allergen to induce an IgE-mediated response, regardless of previous exposure. Allergens are a complex milieu of proteins, some of which have allergic potential while others do not. A number of proteins are conserved across allergen species. When exposure to these conserved proteins occurs, the immune system recognizes them in a similar manner. For homologous or cross-reactive allergenic proteins, this conserved molecular recognition initiates the allergic cascade. Allergen characterization is critical to the understanding of cross-reactivity. Characterization, in this context, refers to the protein make-up of a particular allergen. The process of allergen characterization began in 1962 with the discovery of antigen E, the first identified allergenic protein. Antigen E, commonly known as Amb a 1, is an allergenic protein in ragweed, and is the primary sensitizing protein for ragweed allergy sufferers. These primary sensitizers are referred to as major allergens and can be defined as such when >50% of the allergic patient population is sensitized to them. An entire branch of research arose from this discovery, which has allowed for major advances to be made in the understanding of cross‑reactive relationships among allergen species. Cross‑reactivity is not limited to homologous major allergen expression. Rather, minor allergens and panallergens, though less clinically relevant, play a similar role in cross‑reactive relationships. This primer will explore the science behind cross‑reactivity, as well as provide a general overview of the cross‑reactive relationships that have been defined for plant allergens found across North America.

Titanium Cable Cerclage Increases the Load to Failure in Plate Osteosynthesis for Distal Femoral Fractures.

Background and Objectives: The reduction of two-part oblique or spiral fractures of the distal femur using steel wire cerclage prior to plate osteosynthesis is a proven procedure. In addition to being useful in fracture reduction, wire cerclage was also shown to increase the stability of osteosynthesis. Nevertheless, metal corrosion and the allergenic potency of steel remain problematic disadvantages of this method. A biomechanical study was carried out to evaluate titanium cable cerclage as an alternative supplement for plate osteosynthesis of a distal femoral two-part fracture. Materials and Methods: An unstable AO/OTA 32-A2.3 fracture was created in eleven pairs of nonosteoporotic human cadaver femora. All the samples were treated with polyaxial angular stable plate osteosynthesis. One femur from each pair was randomly selected for an additional fracture fixation with multifilament titanium cable cerclage. Stepwise cyclic axial loading was applied in a load-to-failure mode using a servohydraulic testing machine. Results: All specimens (mean age: 80 years; range: 57-91 years) withstood a cycling force of at least 1800 N. With a mean load of 2982 N (95% CI: 2629-3335 N), the pressure forces resulting in osteosynthesis failure were significantly higher in specimens with an additional titanium cerclage (Group 1) than in samples that were solely treated with plate osteosynthesis (Group 2) at 2545 N (95% CI: 2257-2834 N) (p = 0.024). In both groups, cutting out the distal screws at the condyle region, resulting in shearing of the distal fragment proximal to the fracture line, was the most frequent cause of construct failure. Among the specimens assigned to Group 1, 36% exhibited a specific fracture pattern, namely, a fracture of the dorsal buttress above the cerclage. Analysis of axial stiffness (p = 0.286) and irreversible deformity of the specimens revealed no differences between the groups (p = 0.374). Conclusion: Titanium cable cerclage application, as a supplement to an angular stable plate, resulted in an increased load to failure. In terms of stability, the use of this adjunct for fracture fixation of supracondylar two-part oblique femoral fractures might, therefore, be an option, especially in patients who are sensitive to nickel.

Comprehensive bioinformatics assessments of the ROP34 of Toxoplasma gondii to approach vaccine candidates

IntroductionRhoptries proteins (ROPs) are crucial throughout different stages of the Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) lifecycle, playing key roles in both the invasion of host cells and their subsequent survival. ROP34 is particularly noteworthy as it significantly influences host gene expression and aids in the transition from the tachyzoite to the bradyzoite form.Materials and methodsThis research utilized various bioinformatics tools to assess physico-chemical properties, allergenic and antigenic characteristics, sites for post-translational modifications (PTMs) and protein's secondary and three-dimensional structures of the ROP34 protein. Furthermore, the study identified potential B-cell, MHC-binding, and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) epitopes within the ROP34 sequence.ResultsThe ROP34 peptide comprised 553 amino acid residues, with a calculated average molecular weight (MW) of 61.60149 kDa, an aliphatic index of 73.98, and a GRAVY score of − 0.554. The antigenicity of the multi-epitope peptide was estimated to be 0.526563 and 0.6025 by the ANTIGENpro and VaxiJen servers, respectively, suggesting ROP34 as an immunogenic protein with no allergenic potential. Secondary structure analysis revealed a composition of 52.80% random coil, 36.17% alpha helix, and 11.03% extended strand. The Ramachandran plot for the refined model depicted that 97.46% of the residues were situated in the favored region.ConclusionThis in silico research serves as a foundation for designing effective immunization tactics to target toxoplasmosis. The present article lays the groundwork for future studies and offers perspectives for the advancement of an appropriate toxoplasmosis vaccine.Graphical

Transcriptome Mining, Identification and In silico Characterization of Thaumatin-Like Protein Sequences from Mentha Longifolia

Background: Thaumatin-like proteins (TLPs) constitute the PR-5 family of plant pathogenesis- related (PR) proteins and are responsible for host defense and various growth and development- related processes. Mints (Mentha sp.) are essential oil-bearing plants, mainly affected by water availability and fungal pathogens. Objective: Identification of candidate TLPs in Mentha longifolia that may help to counter pathogen infection Methods: Several bioinformatics procedures were used to identify TLP gene sequences from M. longifolia and to characterize them for nucleotide length and composition, their translated proteins, subcellular location, signal peptides, post translational modifications, allergenicity potential, evolutionary relatedness, and miRNA targeting. Result: 19 TLP candidates were identified in M. longifolia (Mlo_TLP001 - Mlo_TLP0019) annotating the available transcriptome data. The molecular mass of Mlo_TLPs ranged between 35.43 kDa - 12.79 kDa. Expression analysis of the Mlo_TLPs revealed that Mlo_TLP003, 006, 008, 010, 012, 013, 014, and 018 were upregulated in M. longifolia stem as compared to the root under control conditions. Further, the analysis of control and V. dahliae infected M. longifolia plants has shown Mlo_TLP006 to be upregulated in both the infected stem and root tissues as compared to the control. Conclusion: Mlo_TLP006 is a probable candidate that imparts resistance to fungal pathogens in Mentha longifolia

Allergen Testing: A Review of the Indications, Procedures, and Limitations in Ocular Allergy.

Allergen-based diagnostics are essential in the management algorithm of allergic diseases. Unlike systemic allergy, where the indications and interpretation of these diagnostic modalities are well established, their utility in ocular allergy is not well-defined. With the rising prevalence of ocular allergies and the need for personalized treatment strategies, there is a growing demand for precision allergen diagnostics. This review describes the commonly used tests with their indications, procedures, and limitations. A review of the literature was carried out on articles on allergen diagnostics in ocular allergy, and after excluding articles that were not relevant, 82 papers were included in the current review. IgE-mediated pathways contribute significantly to seasonal and perennial ocular allergy and partly to vernal keratoconjunctivitis. Most diagnostic techniques aim to detect IgE sensitization. In vivo tests include skin prick (SPT), intradermal, and patch tests. SPT is considered the gold standard and directly evaluates the presence of allergen-specific IgE in the skin. In vitro tests measure total and specific IgE from either tears or sera. Tear IgE measurement is relatively specific for allergic conjunctivitis and can provide insight into the potential allergens responsible for local sensitization. The conjunctival provocation test can help establish true allergy, especially in patients with polysensitization. This review also provides an overview of evidence in literature segregated based on the test employed. This includes 17 studies on only SPT; 42 studies on IgE measured in serum, tears, or both; and 20 studies which have evaluated both SPT and IgE. The pattern of allergen sensitization can guide recommendations for avoidance measures and immunotherapy. Thus, this could create a corticosteroid-sparing therapy avenue in these patients, reducing disease severity and resulting visual morbidity.

Genetic variability of the major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1 and characterization of B- and T-cell epitopes

The hanging birch pollen collected in the period April – May 2020, 2021 in the territory of six regions of the Republic of Belarus was studied. Recombinant plasmid DNA was obtained. A nucleotide sequence of cloned fragments was determined. The results on the spectrum of isoforms of the Bet v 1 protein were analyzed. The obtained sequences corresponded to one degree or another to 11 genetic variants of the studied allergen. There were 7 isoforms of Bet v 1 defined within one tree. The predominant isoform of the birch pollen allergen Bet v 1 in the territory of the Republic of Belarus was Bet v 1.0101 (Bet v 1a, X15877.1). The identified variants were analyzed for their potential allergenicity by screening amino acids that according to the literature data were identified as affecting IgE-binding. The analysis of amino acid residues included in the IgE-binding conformational epitopes revealed amino acid substitutions exhibiting the multidirectional (high or low) IgE-binding activity in positions 31, 58, 113, 114, 126. The structure of dominant epitopes recognized by the T-cell receptor was studied. It was found that the C-terminal immunodominant T-cell epitope Bet v 1143–157 is highly conserved among various isoforms of the allergen in contrast to the epitope Bet v 178–93 located in the central region. The revealed amino acid substitutions of the studied sites can affect the activation of T-cells, cross-reactivity and significantly increase the variability of the expected IgE-mediated reaction.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin A as a novel allergen induced Non-TH2 inflammation in a murine model of steroid-insensitive asthma

BackgroundDespite the immediate in vivo occurrence of anaphylactic and allergic reactions following treatment with Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin A (PEA)-based immunotoxins, the immunological role of PEA in asthma pathogenesis remains unclear. ObjectiveThis study investigated the allergenic potential of PEA and the specific type of asthma induced. MethodsRecombinant PEA (rPEA) lacking domain Ia (to eliminate non-specific cytotoxicity) was expressed, purified, and employed to detect serum PEA-specific IgE levels in asthmatic patients. Competitive ELISA assays were used to assess rPEA's IgE binding capacity and allergenicity. Additionally, rPEA-challenged C57BL/6 mice were subjected to inflammatory endotyping and therapeutic assays to characterize the allergic nature of PEA. ResultsPEA-specific IgE was identified in 17 (14.2 %) of 120 asthma patients. The rPEA-sensitized and challenged mice had increased PEA-specific immunoglobulins (such as IgE, IgG1 and IgG2a) and developed asthma-like phenotypes with airway hyperresponsiveness, severe airway inflammation, and airway remodeling. Lungs from these mice displayed significant increases in neutrophils and IL-17A+ cells. Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) produced type 2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13), whereas Th cells did not. Nonetheless, airway inflammation, rather than hyperresponsiveness, was elicited in non-sensitized mice upon challenge with rPEA. Importantly, rPEA-induced asthmatic mice were unresponsive to dexamethasone treatment. ConclusionPEA is a novel allergen that sensitizes asthmatic patients. Furthermore, mice developed steroid-resistant asthma, characterized by an atypical cytokine profile associated with non-TH2 inflammation, only after being sensitized and challenged with rPEA. These findings suggest a potentially significant role for PEA in asthma development, warranting consideration in clinical diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Effects of rosmarinic acid covalent conjugation on the allergenicity and functional properties of egg white protein

Polyphenols can form complexes with proteins, potentially enhancing the properties of egg white protein (EWP) by altering its structure. This study aimed to explore the effect of covalent conjugating with rosmarinic acid (RA), a bioactive polyphenol found in various edible Lamiaceae herbs, on the structure, allergenicity, and functional properties of EWP. The successful preparation of EWP-RA conjugates was confirmed through RA binding equivalent analysis. Fluorescence spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD), and ultraviolet (UV) absorption spectroscopy collectively indicated that the covalent conjugation with RA led to significant structural alterations in EWP. Furthermore, the conjugation of RA markedly enhanced the antioxidant capacity of EWP, as evidenced by its improved ability to scavenge DPPH and ABTS+ radicals. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) results indicated a substantial reduction in the binding capacity of EWP-RA conjugates to IgG and IgE, indicating a decrease in the allergenic potential of EWP. Moreover, the incorporation of RA was associated with an increase in the absolute zeta potential, protein flexibility, and free sulfhydryl content of EWP, alongside a reduction in surface hydrophobicity. The findings also revealed that RA enhanced the emulsifying activity, emulsion stability, foaming ability and foaming stability of EWP. Furthermore, the storage performance of EWP improved after conjugation with RA. In conclusion, the covalent conjugation of EWP with RA not only diminished its allergenic potential but also improved its functional properties through structural modification. This study posits that such an approach could be an effective strategy for enhancing the functional properties of EWP while concurrently mitigating its allergenic potential, thereby offering promising applications in the formulation of future food products.

Der Nachweis beruflich verursachter Allergien ist ein komplexes Unterfangen: ein Fallbeispiel

The detection of occupational allergies is a complex undertaking: A case study According to the recommendations for the diagnosis of occupational asthma, suspected cases require a confirmed asthma diagnosis, work-associated symptoms, evidence of sensitization to an occupational allergen and a close relationship between the occupation and the symptoms. In addition to a detailed medical history, several examinations and tests and a differentiated consideration of them are required in order to arrive at a final expert assessment. We report the case of a 58-year-old butcher who had been complaining of shortness of breath and coughing at his workplace in a slaughterhouse for 5 years. It was only after extensive investigations and a detailed medical history that a powdered kebab spice used in an adjacent room was suspected as the potential allergen. Diagnostic tests showed that the patient was sensitized to the spice. While the specific inhalation challenge (SIC) with kebab spice did not elicit an asthmatic reaction, a non-specific bronchial hyperreactivity in the insured person was observed. On the day after the SIC, the bronchial hyperreactivity was increased by a factor of three and there were further indications of eosinophilic or allergic reaction. In summary, the individual diagnostic components led to the assessment of this case as allergic occupational asthma. This case illustrates that an assessment of the individual diagnostic components in the diagnosis of occupational asthma is quite complex and not without pitfalls. Keywords: occupational asthma – diagnosis – sensitization – bronchial hyperreactivity

Sensitisation to the acrylate co-polymers glyceryl acrylate/acrylic acid co-polymer, sodium polyacrylate and acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate cross-polymer (Carbopol®) is rare.

Acrylate polymers and cross-polymers (ACPs) are frequently used cosmetic ingredients. The British Society for Cutaneous Allergy (BSCA) and the UK Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA) collaborated to investigate the allergenic potential of three commonly-used ACPs. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to three ACPs: glyceryl acrylate/acrylic acid co-polymer, sodium polyacrylate, and acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate cross-polymer (Carbopol®). The BSCA prospectively audited data collected from 20 centres in the UK and Ireland between 1st September 2021 and 1st September 2022. Patients with suspected ACD to (meth)acrylates, with facial dermatitis, or consecutive patients, were patch tested to glyceryl acrylate/acrylic acid co-polymer 10% aqueous (aq.) sodium polyacrylate 2% aq., and to acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate cross-polymer 2% aq. (Carbopol®). The frequencies of positive, irritant, and doubtful reactions were recorded. In total, 1302 patients were patch tested. To glyceryl acrylate/acrylic acid co-polymer, there was one doubtful reaction in a patient allergic to multiple (meth)acrylates, and one irritant. To sodium polyacrylate, there were four irritant reactions, one doubtful, and one positive reaction; in all cases, relevance was unknown and there was no demonstrable (meth)acrylate allergy. There were no reactions to Carbopol®. Sensitisation to these concentrations of the three tested ACPs is rare. Elicitation of dermatitis in (meth)acrylate-sensitised patients by exposure to these three ACPs appears unlikely.

A literature review of allergen properties in fish collagen and its derivative products

Fish are generally categorized as allergens that cause reactions mediated by Immunoglobulin E (IgE). Fish collagen is one of the causes of allergic reactions, ranging from mild symptoms such as nausea and itching to severe symptoms such as anaphylaxis across all ages. Previous research has not specifically or comprehensively explained the characteristics of fish collagen and its derivatives as allergens. This study aims to address this gap by explaining the properties, contributing factors, and potential hazards of fish collagen and its derivatives as allergens. This research employed a literature review summarizing several main studies to produce comprehensive findings. The structure of collagen, contaminant allergens, and fish type can affect the allergenicity of fish collagen. Processing methods, such as heating, acid or enzyme treatment, and washing, can determine allergenicity. The structure of fish collagen can change upon heating, but its allergenicity cannot be reduced. Fish collagen is also known to have good resistance to enzymes; therefore, it can easily bind to immune cells. Another factor was age, in which adults had a greater frequency of IgE binding to fish collagen than did children and adolescents. They were included as potential allergens based on research results and existing data regarding allergy cases and their potential hazards. Therefore, there is a need for further research on allergies to fish collagen and its derivatives, especially in countries that do not require the inclusion of allergens where food safety matters.

Characteristics of IgE/IgG affinity and glycosylation sites in β-lactoglobulin subjected to synergistic HHP and galactose oligogalactose treatment

This study investigates the efficacy of High Hydrostatic Pressure (HHP) coupled with glycosylation as a novel approach to modulate β-lactoglobulin, a predominant allergenic protein in milk. The objective is to attenuate its allergenic potential while preserving its physicochemical attributes. A comprehensive array of analytical methods, including spectroscopy, chromatography, mass spectrometry, and ELISA, were deployed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the observed alterations in allergenicity. Our findings reveal that HHP-assisted glycosylation induces structural modifications in the protein, facilitating the covalent linkage of oligogalactose moieties to β-lactoglobulin. This structural alteration culminates in a marked reduction in the immunogenicity of β-lactoglobulin. The decrease is primarily attributed to modifications in specific amino acid residues—namely, Lys14, Lys101, Lys124, and Arg148—and the introduction of glycosylation at the Arg40 site. The synergistic effect of HHP and glycosylation not only mitigates the allergenicity of β-lactoglobulin by obscuring linear epitopes and altering its conformation but also enhances its physicochemical functionalities, including emulsifying properties, solubility, and antioxidant activity. These insights offer a robust theoretical foundation for the formulation of hypoallergenic whey protein products.