Research progress on effects of air pollution on pollinosis and its mechanisms / 环境与职业医学

Pollinosis is one of the common allergic diseases, and its morbidity continues to increase. Studies have demonstrated that air pollution is a key environmental factor that leads to the increased prevalence of pollinosis. Air pollutants and pollen allergens exert synergistic effects in stimulating allergic responses in susceptible individuals. In this article, we analyzed the relationship between air pollution and pollinosis based on the latest studies, and elaborated potential mechanisms on how air pollution increases the incidence of pollinosis and aggravates allergic reactions. Air pollutants can increase both pollen production and the levels of allergenic proteins, and enhance allergenicity of pollen allergens through structural alterations or chemical modifications. The potential mechanisms of air pollutants exacerbating pollen allergies are as follows: Air pollutants may disrupt the barrier function of the respiratory epithelium and facilitate the penetration of pollen allergens into deeper tissues. Additionally, they may accelerate the process of the release of pollen allergy-related cytokines, promoting T helper 2 (Th2) cell differentiation and exacerbating inflammatory responses in the airways. Given the limitations of existing research, future prospective studies are needed to explore the effects of mixed pollutants and different types of pollutants on pollen, and the response mechanisms of allergy-related cells and cytokines to different pollutant categories. The findings would provide a comprehensive understanding of the impacts of air pollution on pollen allergies and scientific evidence for effective protection of the heath of pollinosis patients.

In silico screening of plant peptides against the envelope protein of dengue virus

@#Peptide therapeutics are found to be an emerging and attractive class of treatment due to their highly specific and safe nature. Hence twenty plant peptides were subjected to screening by molecular docking against the envelope protein of the dengue virus using Clus Pro, Patch Dock, and HADDOCK servers. Physicochemical parameters, allergenicity, and toxicity profile of the plant peptides were estimated by Protparam analysis, AllergenFP, and ToxinPred web servers. Six potential compounds namely Ginkbilobin, Cycloviolin-D, Circulin-B, Circulin-A, Cycloviolacin-013, and Circulin-C showed the highest binding energy with both nonallergenic and nontoxic properties. They also exhibited desirable half-lives extending to 30 hrs except for Ginkbilobin, which showed the least half-life of 4.4 hours and non-polar activity. The residues of Ala-4 of Ginkbilobin; Arg-30 of Cycloviolin D; Arg-29 of Circulin A and C interacted with the Try 101 of the domain II of Envelope protein, implying the possible inhibition of the insertion process of the trimeric E protein during fusion with the host cells. Thus, the identified plant peptides could serve as potential leads upon further subjection to in vitro studies.

Soy protein: a food allergen frequently used in the preparation of meat products / Proteína de soya: un alergeno alimentario altamente utilizado en la preparación de productos cárnicos

The addition of soy proteins, currently classified as a food allergen, into meat products is a commonly used practice due to its functional properties and low cost. Its addition to meat products can cause health problems for individuals allergic to these proteins. Allergic individuals can be affected by the ingestion of low amounts of the allergen. In Brazil, limits are set for the addition of soy proteins in meat products in order to avoide fraud. Starting in 2015 reporting the name of the added component became mandatory for all food labelling. Some studies have reported that food processing can reduce the allergenicity, either by irreversible removal of allergens or by modifying the allergen structure. However, the technological approach to decrease allergenicity has largely been empirical. This review describes the use of soy protein in meat products and the health risk for allergic individuals and consumers of these products. Finally, appropriate methodologies for the detection and quantification of these proteins must be further explored and established to avoid fraud and to preserve consumer health.

La adición de proteínas de soya, actualmente clasificadas como alergeno alimentario, en los productos cárnicos es una práctica comúnmente utilizada debido a sus propiedades funcionales y bajo costo. Su adición en productos cárnicos puede causar problemas de salud en personas alérgicas a estas proteínas. Las personas alérgicas pueden verse afectadas por la ingestión de cantidades diminutas de alérgeno. En Brasil, se establecen límites para la adición de proteínas de soya en los productos cárnicos con el objetivo de evitar el fraude. Solo en 2015 se hizo obligatoria la declaración en la etiqueta de todos los alimentos que indicaban la presencia de sustancias alérgicas, así como el nombre del componente. Algunos estudios se refieren al procesamiento de alimentos para reducir la alergenicidad, ya sea mediante la eliminación irreversible de alergenos o modificando la estructura del alergeno; sin embargo, el enfoque tecnológico hasta ahora para disminuir la alergenicidad ha sido en gran medida empírico. Esta revisión describe el uso de proteína de soya en los productos cárnicos y el riesgo que puede causar para la salud de las personas alérgicas y a los consumidores de estos productos. Finalmente, las metodologías apropiadas para la detección y cuantificación de estas proteínas deben explorarse en profundidad y establecerse para evitar el fraude y preservar la salud de los consumidores.

Cross-Allergy of Sulfonamide-Containing Drugs in Sulfonamide Allergic Patients: A Literature Review and Case Study

The purpose of this study is to find out whether there are broad cross-reactivity between antibacterial and nonantibacterial sulfonamide agents, the method of the study contained two parts, one is literature research mainlyfrom PubMed database by using the MeSH terms (“Drug name” + allergy); (“Drug name” + hypersensitivity);(“Drug name” + cross-allergenicity) and (“Drug name + cross-reactivity), the search drugs included somecommonly seen medication such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, COX-2 inhibitor, loop diuretic, sulfonylurea,thiazide and certain antiviral drugs; the other parts of this thesis is to conduct a statistical review, we screen outpatients who have a previous allergic history of antimicrobial sulfonamides from hospital medical record systemduring Jan 1st, 2015 to Dec 31th, 2016, we did a descriptive statistics of general patients medical information,analyze the suspect cases which patients present potential allergic reaction after using non-antimicrobialsulfonamides agents. Result of literature research reveal there are no convincing evidences and research toconfirm there are bored allergenicity between non-antimicrobial sulfonamides and antimicrobial sulfonamide inthe aspects of chemical structure, immunological study, and large scale population study as well; Result ofhospital patient’s statistics found out there are only 3 suspected cases that the patients were having adverseeffect during their pharmacotherapy from 506 cases. However, we did not found any strong correlation of broadallergenicity between non-antimicrobial sulfonamides and antimicrobial sulfonamides from these suspectedcases. Conclusion: There is minimal evidence of cross-reactivity between the antimicrobial sulfonamides and thenon-antimicrobial sulfonamides. However, the non-antimicrobial sulfonamides are rarely implicated inhypersensitivity reactions as well, so it is impossible to say with certainty that cross-reactivity does not occur.

Recomendaciones sobre la utilización de las fórmulas infantiles con proteína aislada de soya en la alimentación del lactante. Documento de posición basado en la evidencia / Recommendations on the use of infant formulas with isolated soy protein in infant feeding. Evidence-Based Position Paper

Antecedentes: Las fórmulas a base de proteína de soya (FBPS) se han utilizado desde hace tiempo como una alternativa para lactantes con requerimientos nutricionales especiales. Sin embargo, las indicaciones médicas para su uso, su alergenicidad, seguridad y eficacia aún son controvertidas. Objetivo: Presentar recomendaciones del uso de FBPS basadas en la literatura existente. Métodos: Se realizó la consulta de revisiones sistemáticas y guías de práctica clínica, por medio de algoritmos de búsqueda validados, y sistemas como AGREE (Appraisal of Guidelines for REsearch and Evaluation) II y PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). Para la elaboración de las recomendaciones clínicas se analizaron y discutieron los tópicos de mayor importancia, por parte de los investigadores responsables y el grupo de expertos del desarrollo de un documento de posición. Se evaluó la calidad de la evidencia utilizando el sistema GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation). Resultados: Se encontraron distintos reportes con calidad de evidencia variable que sustentan la eficacia de las FBPS en el manejo de la alergia a la proteína de la leche de vaca y en la tolerancia digestiva del lactante, así como su baja alergia cruzada en comparación a la leche de vaca y otras fórmulas. También se encontraron otros estudios que indican la seguridad de las FBPS sobre distintos parámetros nutricionales, inmunitarios y de desarrollo. Existe además evidencia que demuestra que las FBPS tienen ventajas importantes en cuestión de costo-beneficio, palatabilidad y efectos sobre la microbiota intestinal, en comparación con otras fórmulas. Conclusiones: Aunque existe evidencia limitada para recomendar su utilización en los trastornos digestivos funcionales, las FBPS tienen un perfil de seguridad adecuado y continúan siendo una opción válida para la alimentación del lactante.

Abstract Background: Soy infant formulas (SIF) have long been used as an alternative for infants with special nutritional requirements. However, the medical indications for their use, their allergenicity, safety and efficacy are still controversial. Objective: To present recommendations for the use of SIF based on the existing literature. Methods: We consulted systematic reviews and clinical practice guides, through validated search algorithms, and systems such as Appraisal of Guidelines for REsearch and Evaluation (AGREE)II and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). For the elaboration of the clinical recommendations, the most important topics were analyzed and discussed by the responsible researchers and the group of experts in the development of a position paper. The quality of the evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Results: Several reports with variable quality of evidence were found. They support SIF’s efficacy in the management of cow’s milk allergy and infant’s digestive tolerance, as well as its low cross allergy compared to cow’s milk and other formulas. We also found other studies that indicate the safety of SIFs on different nutritional, immune and developmental parameters. There is also evidence that demonstrates that SIFs have important advantages in terms of cost-benefit, palatability and effects on the intestinal microbiota, compared to other formulas. Conclusions: Although evidence to recommend its use in functional digestive disorders is limited, SIFs have an adequate safety profile and are still a valid option for infant feeding.

Development and properties of hypoallergenic infant formula

Milk proteins are composed of casein, further classified into αS1-casein, αS2-casein, β-casein, and κ-casein, and whey protein, which is separated into α-lacatalbumin, β-lactoglobulin, serum albumin, and some minor proteins, such as lactoferrin and immunoglobulin. To reduce the allergenicity of protein, heat treatment and enzymatic protein hydrolysis by endopeptidase are necessarily required. Additionally, membrane technology should be applied to produce a protein hydrolyzate, which has consistent molecular weight of peptide and low in free amino acid without allergenic peptide or protein. Extensive casein hydrolyzate and whey protein hydrolyzate are used for protein source of mainly extensively hydrolyzed protein formula (eHF) intended for the treatment of cow's milk allergy. Also, partially hydrolyzed formula (pHF) is developed, which is using a single protein source e.g., whey protein hydrolyzate. The allergenicity of infant formula can be determined according to molecular weight profile and antigenicity reduction compared to intact protein. More than 90% peptides are present in eHF have a molecular weight of 10,000 Da. Generally, antigenicity reduction in eHF and pHF is 10-6 and 10-3, respectively. Even if protein hydrolyzate is manufactured under strict quality control, there is still a risk of cross contamination of allergenic milk components through environmental conditions and the shared manufacturing process. Thus, quality assessment of protein hydrolyzate formula must be performed routinely.

Study on skin irritation and allergenicity by indomethacin emulsion / 药学实践杂志

Objective Study on skin irritation and allergenicity of indomethacin emulsion ,in order to provide theoretical basis for clinical safe medication .Methods New Zealand white rabbits were used to test skin irritation ,given 0 .5g test sub-stance for 14 days .The skin irritation was observed in the two groups with eight rabbits each during the experiment .Six rab-bits in each group were sacrificed 72 hours after the last medication and skin tissues were taken for histopathology examination ;and the skin tissues of remaining two rabbits were taken for histopathology examination in 14th day after the last medication . Guinea pigs were used to test skin allergenicity ,given 0 .5g test substance on day 0 ,7 ,14 for local induction .On day 28 ,the animal subjects were given 0 .4g test substance on non-administration skin of guinea pigs for local excitation .Results Slight ir-ritation of indomethacin emulsion on normal or damaged skin was observed but it is reversible after withdrawal for rabbits .Sen-sitization effect on the skin of guinea pig was not found .Conclusion Indomethacin emulsion is not suitable to long-term use clinically ,and skin irritation need to pay more attention .

Cross-allergenicity between dandelion and major weed pollens

PURPOSE: The prevalence of pollinosis is increasing, and it is expected to increase further with climate change. Mugwort and ragweed pollens are well known as prevalent allergenic weed pollens in Korea. However, the clinical significance of dandelion pollen as an inhalant allergen has not yet been studied. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical significance and cross-allergenicity between dandelion and major weed pollens. METHODS: Ninety-seven patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma or with allergic rhinitis alone who were sensitized to dandelion pollens on skin prick tests (allergen/histamine ratio>3) were enrolled between December, 2012 and November, 2013. Serum specific IgE levels to dandelion pollen extracts were measured by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). ELISA inhibition tests were performed to evaluate cross allergenecity with other weed pollens. RESULTS: When the positive cutoff value for serum specific IgE was set at the mean+/-3 standard deviation of absorbance values, 52 patients (53.6%) had a high serum specific IgE antibody level. ELISA inhibition tests showed significant inhibitions with serial addition of dandelion pollen extracts, and 5 different inhibition patterns were noted with addition of 4 weed pollen extracts: significant inhibitions with pollens of mugwort, ragweed, chenopodium and Hop J (25%, 13 of 52), inhibitions with pollens of mugwort, ragweed and chenopodium (17.3%, 9 of 52), inhibitions with 2 pollens of mugwort and ragweed (32.6%, 17 of 52), inhibitions with mugwort pollen (21.1%, 11 of 52), and inhibitions with dandelion pollen alone (4%, 2 of 52). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that dandelion pollen may be a causative inhalant allergen to induce pollinosis in the autumn season. Cross-allergenicity with other weed pollens showed individual differences; most patients had cross-reactivity with mugwort, ragweed, and chenopodium pollens, while some with Hop J pollen. Few patients were sensitized to dandelion pollen alone.

Hypersensitivity to pollen of four different species of Brassica: a clinico-immunologic evaluation in patients of respiratory allergy in India

BACKGROUND: Rapeseed-mustard is the second most important source of edible oil in India. Several species of Brassica are grown in different parts of country for its oilseeds. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to investigate allergenicity to antigenic extracts of pollen of 4 species of Brassica. METHODS: Brassica campestris, Brassica juncea, Brassica nigra, and Brassica napus were selected for the detailed investigation. Pollen samples from each of the four species were collected from the polliniferous materials. The antigenic and allergenic profiles of these extracts were evaluated by means of sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, Skin prick test, enzyme linked immuno sorbent assay and Western blot on atopic individuals. RESULTS: Out of the 159 atopic subjects tested, 21.38% were positive to at least one or other species of Brassica pollen, with highest skin positivity (13.20%) to B. campestris extract. Raised IgE with significant linear correlation with intensity of skin reactions was obtained. Protein fractions of 20, 25, 32, 37, 56, and 90 kDa were recognized by B. campestris and B. juncea whereas 56, 76, 87, and 90 kDa were recognized by B. nigra and B. napus as major IgE binding protein fractions. The patients also showed positivity to other inhalant pollen allergens tested. CONCLUSION: IgE mediated hypersensitivity varied from 4.40% to 13.20% in Indian atopic subjects to pollen of one or the other species of Brassica. Protein fractions of 47, 56, 76, 87, and 90 kDa were identified as IgE binding by all the four species, however individual heterogeneity exists. Thus a local species may be more pertinent for immunotherapy. The major allergen needs to be further characterized.

Alergias alimentarias y la influenciade los métodos de procesado / Food allergies and the influence of processing methods / Alergias alimentares e a influênciados métodos de processamento

La incidencia de alergias alimentarias en los países desarrollados se estima que puede ser de un 3-4% en adultos y de un 6-8% en niños y sigue aumentando rápidamente. Los alérgenos alimentarios son principalmente proteínas que causan una respuesta inmune mediada por IgE, pero el mecanismo de esta respuesta todavía no es claro. La alergia al huevo es una causa frecuente de hipersensibilidad durante la niñez. La resistencia a la digestión es un criterio usado en los ensayos de alergenicidad de una proteína. En adición, es necesario tener en cuenta el efecto sobre las proteínas de los tratamientos comúnmente aplicados a los alimentos. Estos tratamientos pueden modificar la estructura de la proteína, cambiando su digestibilidad y alterando su alergenicidad.

The incidence of food allergy in developed countries is estimated to be 3-4% in adults and up to 6-8% in children, and it seems to be rising rapidly. Food allergens are mainly proteins that cause an IgE-mediated immune response, but the mechanism for this response still remains unclear. Egg allergy is a common cause of hypersensitivity in children. The resistance to digestion is one of the criteria used to assess the allergenicity of a protein. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the effect on proteins of the treatments that are commonly applied to foods. These treatments can modify the protein structure, changing the digestibility of the protein and thus altering its allergenicity.

Estima-se que a incidência de alergias alimentares nospaíses desenvolvidos pode ser 3-4% em adultos e 6-8%em crianças e continua aumentando rapidamente. Osalérgenos alimentares são principalmente as proteínasque causam uma resposta imune mediado por IgE, maso mecanismo desta resposta ainda não é claro. A alergia ao ovo é uma causa frequente da hipersensibilidade durante a infância. A resistência à digestão é um critério usado nos ensaios de alergenicidade de uma proteína. Além disso, é preciso ter em conta o efeito sobre as proteínas dos tratamentos normalmente aplicados aos alimentos. Estes tratamentos podem modificar a estrutura da proteína, alterando a sua digestibilidade e modificando a sua alergenicidade.

Allergenic potential and enzymatic resistance of buckwheat

Buckwheat is known as a health food but is one of the major food allergens triggering potentially fatal anaphylaxis in Asia, especially in Japan and Korea. This study was conducted to investigate the characteristic of enzymatic resistance of buckwheat protein and allergenic potential. Enzymatic resistance of buckwheat protein was performed with in vitro digestibility test in simulated gastric fluid (SGF), pH 1.2, using pepsin and simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) using chymotrypsin. Reactivity of buckwheat proteins to human IgE was performed using six allergic patients sensitized to buckwheat. Buckwheat's IgE levels were measured using the Phadia UniCAP-system. Buckwheat protein, 16 kDa, still remained after 30 min treatment of pepsin on SDS-PAGE. Even though 16 kDa almost disappeared after 60 min treatment, two out of the six buckwheat patients' sera showed reactivity to hydrolysate after 60 min treatment, indicating that allergenicity still remained. In simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) using chymotrypsin, buckwheat protein, 24 kDa, showed resistance to hydrolysis with chymotrypsin on SDS-PAGE, and still had allergenicity based on the result of ELISA. Our results suggest that buckwheat proteins have strong resistance to enzyme degradation. This may be attributed in part to the allergenic potential of buckwheat. Further study should be continued regarding buckwheat allergy.

Flora alergógena urbana y polen atmosférico de Diamante (Argentina) / Allergenic urban flora and airborne pollen in the air of Diamante (Argentina)

El polen del aire produce rinitis, conjuntivitis y asma, lo que lleva a una disminución en la calidad de vida. Las especies más abundantes de la vegetación son en general, las que aportan mayoritariamente al registro atmosférico de polen. Sin embargo, esta relación puede variar dependiendo de la cercanía de las fuentes y de la estrategia reproductiva de las plantas emisoras. En este trabajo realizado en la ciudad de Diamante (Entre Ríos, Argentina), se analizó la vegetación arbórea en cuanto a abundancia, diversidad, distribución territorial, tipo de polinización y potencialidad alergénica, para luego evaluar su relación con el polen que se registró en la atmósfera durante un ciclo anual, utilizando un método aerobiológico volumétrico y continuo bajo estándares internacionales. Se observó que la vegetación analizada presenta una gran diversidad. Los representantes de las familias más abundantes en la vegetación tienen polinización entomófila, como Tabebuia impetiginosa y Tecoma stans. Por otra parte, el 34% de los árboles correspondió a familias de polinización anemófila. Los árboles cercanos al muestreador aerobiológico (dentro de las áreas local y extralocal) son las principales fuentes de polen que contribuyen al espectro atmosférico, especialmente los árboles anemófilos. Entre ellos cabe mencionar: Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Ulmus procera y Broussonetia papyrifera. El polen de especies anemófilas en su mayoría tiene características alergénicas y son potencialmente perjudiciales para la salud. Los resultados obtenidos no sólo son importantes para ajustar el modelo aerobiológico de la ciudad, sino que sirven de fundamento para planificar el arbolado urbano.(AU)

Airborne pollen produces rhinitis, conjunctivitis and asthma, leading to a decreased quality of life. In general, the most abundant vegetation species are also present in greater amounts in the pollen spectrum. However, this relationship can vary depending on the proximity of the sources and the plant reproductive strategy. This work was carried out in Diamante city (Entre Ríos, Argentina). Abundance, diversity, territorial distribution, type of pollination, and allergenic potential of vegetation were analyzed to finally assess the relationship with the pollen recorded in the atmosphere during one annual cycle. A volumetric and continuous aerobiological method under international protocols was used to sample the airborne pollen. It was observed that urban vegetation is diverse. Families more abundant in vegetation have insect-pollinated species as representatives: Tabebuia impetiginosa and Tecoma stans. On the other hand, 34% of the trees corresponded to wind-pollinated families. The trees near the aerobiological sampler (within local and extralocal areas) were the main pollen sources contributing to the atmospheric pollen spectrum, especially those wind-pollinated tree species as Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Ulmus procera and Broussonetia papyrifera. Pollen from wind-pollinated species is most likely to be allergenic and so, potentially harmful to health. The results are important not only to adjust the aerobiological model of the city, but also as a basis to plan urban forest(AU)

Análise comparativa de mapas protéicos de amostras de soja convencionais e tolerantes ao herbicida glifosato visando à inocuidade alimentar / Comparative analysis of maps soy protein samples of conventional and tolerant to the herbicide glyphosate for food safety

A soja geneticamente modificada tolerante ao herbicida glifosato tem sido a cultura derivada da engenharia genética mais cultivada atualmente no mundo. Como todo alimento GM a soja tem sido alvo de investigação em relação a sua Biossegurança. Novas estratégias têm sido desenvolvidas e aplicadas neste campo de pesquisa, sendo que métodos rápidos e eficientes de análise proteômica têm sido utilizados para avaliação e monitoramento da segurança e inocuidade alimentar, indicando mudanças no perfil protéico entre variedades convencionais e GM. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar os mapas protéicos de amostras de soja convencionais e suas derivadas geneticamente modificadas tolerantes ao herbicida glifosato, utilizando técnicas de análise proteômica com ênfase para inocuidade alimentar. Foram utilizadas seis amostras de soja, sendo três convencionais parentais e três derivadas GM, cultivadas entre 2004-2005, em Goiás. O extrato bruto protéico foi submetido à análise por eletroforese unidimensional e bidimensional. A eletroforese 2D, foi realizada utilizando tiras com gradiente de pH de 3-10 e 4-7. As imagens dos mapas protéicos das seis variedades, produzidas em replicatas, foram analisadas pelo software ImageMaster 2D Platinum. O potencial alergênico do extrato protéico bruto foi avaliado para todas as variedades utilizando soro de pacientes alérgicos à soja através de immunoblotting. Nos resultados obtidos observou-se a presença das principais frações protéicas da soja pela eletroforese unidimensional sem alteração significativa entre as amostras parentais e GM, exceto para uma banda de 115 kDa presente nas amostras parentais, mas ausente nas amostras GM. A partir da análise por eletroforese 2D foram identificadas as formas peptídicas correspondentes às frações de β-conglicinina e glicinina bem como diversas outras proteínas encontradas na soja como o inibidor de tripsina e a lipoxigenase. Através do software foi possível observar que um spot apresentou...

Genetically modified soya-tolerant to the herbicide glyphosate culture has been derived from the more cultivated genetic engineering in the world today. As GM soya beans whole food has been investigated in relation to your biosafety. New strategies have been developed and applied research in this field, and fast and efficient methods of analysis proteomics have been used for assessment and monitoring of food security and safety, indicating changes in own protein profile between conventional and GM varieties. The aim of this work was to assess the maps soy protein samples of conventional and genetically modified their derived to the herbicide glyphosate-tolerant, using Proteomics analysis techniques with emphasis on food safety. Six samples were used for conventional soya, three and three derived from GM parental, grown between 2004-2005. The crude protein extract own was subjected to analysis by electrophoresis one-dimensional and two-dimensional. 2D electrophoresis using Strip was held with pH gradient of 3-10 and 4-7. Protein maps images of six varieties produced in replicates have been analysed by the 2D Platinum software ImageMaster. The potential allergenic in crude protein extracts was evaluated for all varieties using allergic patient serum soya by immunoblotting. In the results obtained noted the presence of the main protein fractions of soya by one-dimensional electrophoresis without significant change between parental and GM samples, except for a band of 115 parental kDa present in the sample, but absent in GM samples. From the analysis by 2D electrophoresis peptides forms were identified corresponding to fractions of β-conglicinina and glicinina as well as several other proteins found in soy as trypsin inhibitor and lipoxygenase. Through the software has been possible to observe that a spot presented statistical difference between the samples tested, expressed in greater concentration in the samples GM in parenting. In tests of allergenicity, GM...

Differences between Raw and Variously Cooked Sesame Seeds on the Allergenicity / 소아알레르기및호흡기학회지

PURPOSE:There has been a significant increase in the number on reports of hypersensitivity to sesame, probably because of its use in international fast-food and bakery products. Thus, we have investigated whether various cooking methods affect the allergenicity of sesame. METHODS:Sesame seeds were roasted, boiled or fried with vegetable oil, and then their proteins were each extracted. The proteins were separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and detection of immunoglobulin (Ig) E specific to sesame seed proteins was performed with Western blotting using 6 sera. RESULTS:SDS-PAGE of raw sesame proteins showed various-sized bands including 7, 9, 12, 15 and 17 kD known as major allergens. While only few protein bands remained in roasted or fried sesame seeds, some protein bands sized under 15 kD were observed in the boiled sesame seeds and their soup. The pooled sera yielded IgE-specific reaction with 7 kD in raw and boiled, and 37 kD in fried and boiled sesame proteins. CONCLUSION:These findings suggest that the cooking methods may change the allergenicity of sesame seed proteins.

Assessment of Allergenicity in Genetically Modified Herbicide-Resistant Foods Using the Serum Screening Test / 소아알레르기및호흡기학회지

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the potential allergenicity of genetically modified (GM) herbicide-resistant food by using the serum screenning test. METHODS: Children with allergic disease were recruited, and those who were sensitized to soybean, corn or peanut were selected to obtain their sera. Sensitization to these food allergens was determined when the level of specific IgE was over 0.35 kU/L using ImmunoCAP (Pharmacia, Uppsala, Sweden). Immunoblot analyses were performed for soybean (n=50), corn (n=50) and peanut (n=20). Newly inserted gene was sequenced and cloned from GM soy (Roundup Ready Soybean, Monsanto), GM corn (Bt 11, Syngenta) and GM canola (MS8/RF3 canola, Bayer CropScience). These proteins, such as CP4 EPSPS, PAT, and BAR, were expressed and purified for the serum screening test. RESULTS: Immunoblot analysis using CP4 EPSPS and sera from soybean-sensitized children showed no bands. Likewise, sera from corn-sensitized children and PAT did not demonstrate IgE binding in immunoblot analysis. In addition, there were no reactions between BAR and sera from peanut-sensitized patients. CONCLUSION: The serum screening test using sera from allergic children and newly inserted protein (CP4 EPSPS, PAT and BAR) in GM soybean, GM corn and GM canola failed to show IgE binding in immunoblot analysis. The results of this study suggest that these newly inserted proteins may not cause allergic disease. Further studies using more sera from allergic children are needed to conclude the safety of herbicide-resistant GM food.

Evaluating the Allergenicity of Soybean by the Fermentation / 소아알레르기및호흡기학회지

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to determine the allergenicity of soybean by fermentation. METHODS: Non-fermented soybean, fermented soybean by Bacillus subtilis KFCC 11293 and 3-step fermented soybean by Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis IFO 12007 and Aspergillus oryzae and B. subtilis KFCC 11293 were extracted with phosphate buffered saline (PBS). In order to detect soybean-specific IgE, we performed SDS-PAGE and IgE immunoblot analysis by using 3 kinds of soybean extracts and sera from 9 patients with atopic dermatitis. All patients were sensitive to soybean, which were confirmed by CAP-FEIA. RESULTS: SDS-PAGE of non-fermented soybeans showed many bands, whereas only peptides of less than 15 kDa were found in fermented soybeans. IgE immunoblot analysis of fermented soybeans failed to detect specific IgE which were seen in non-fermented soybeans. CONCLUSION: Fermentation could reduce the allergenicity of soybeans by efficiently degrading antigenic proteins in soybeans. However, there was no significant difference between fermentation by B. subtilis and 3-step fermentation.

Allergenicity of Genetically Modified Crops / 소아알레르기및호흡기학회지

During the period 1996 to 2006, 51 countries have granted regulatory approvals for genetically modified (GM) crops for import for food and feed use and for release into the environment. A total of 539 approvals has been granted for 107 events for 21 crops. One of the safety concerns regarding GM crops is potential allergenicity of the inserted protein. In safety-assessment of the allergenic potential from GM crops, the allergenic properties of the gene donor and the host organisms should be evaluated. The sequence of the newly introduced protein should be compared with all known allergens. If a sequence homology match to a known allergen is identified for the introduced protein, then this protein should be assessed for immunoreactivity using sera from allergic patients. If no sequence homology to known allergens is identified, then the stability of the protein to digestion and processing is assessed. Currently, laboratory and clinical tests have been reported and the assessment process of GM crops has worked well to prevent the unintended introduction of allergens. However, these tests may still occasionally miss a new allergen from all novel foods containing GM crops. The newly introduced protein in GM crops must be carefully assessed as proteins may induce allergic reactions in humans.

Comparison of Genetically Modified Soybean and Wild Soybean in Physicochemical Aspects / 소아알레르기및호흡기학회지

PURPOSE: The list of genetically engineered crops is growing. Traits introduced into these crops include insect protection, delayed ripening, virus resistance, modified nutritional composition, herbicide tolerance etc. Most traits introduced into crops result from the expression of new proteins. FAO/WHO organised joint expert consultations had recommended that substantial equivalence be an important component in the safety assessment of GMO plants for human consumption. As the first step to assess the allergenic potential of GMO food, the immunological and physicochemical characterization is needed. METHODS: We made crude extract from GMO soybean, wild soybean, curd and soy milk and performed SDS-PAGE. After acidification with HCl, the samples were divided to globulin and whey. To evaluate the changes of protein composition, the samples were heated or added with pepsin. PCR with primer coding 35S-promotor, NOS-terminator, and EPSPS gene were performed respectively for detection of GMO component. RESULTS: Although there was difference in protein composition in SDS-PAGE of GMO and wild soybean, the same protein bands are observed in globulin fraction after acidification. The heating made difficult to see the protein distribution exactly. After adding of pepsin the same bands-20 kD, 37 kD, and 68 kD-were preserved in GMO and wild soybeans. The 3 PCR procedures showed same results that GMO soybean and some curd included GMO component. CONCLUSION: There were no definite differences between GMO and wild soybeans in respect to immunologic and physicochemical characteristics. To assess the allergenicity of GMO food, the more researches including in vitro and in vivo immunoassay are needed.

Reduced allergenicities of irradiated egg white ovalbumin determined by skin prick test and ELISA inhibition test / 천식및알레르기

BACKGROUND: Hen's egg is the most frequent cause of food hypersensitivity in infants and young children. The major egg white(EW) proteins are ovalbumin(OVA), ovomucoid(OM), ovotransferrine, and lysozyme. OVA and OM have been generally considered to be the most allergic EW proteins. Food irradiation has been permitted in the fields of agriculture and food handling. Currently, it was suggested that the binding ability of specific IgE to gamma-irradiated OVA was rapidly decreased depending upon the irradiation dose. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the application of food irradiation technology as a method for reducing the allergenicities of EW proteins. METHODS: A total of 10 egg-allergic patients less than 24 months of age were enrolled in this study. OVA was gamma-irradiated at 10 kGy in an aqueous state(2.0 mg/mL). Skin prick test and ELISA inhibition test were done to compare the IgE binding capacities before and after irradiation of OVA. RESULTS: One hundred percent of patients showed positive skin reactions with EW and native-OVA. Negative skin reactions to irradiated-OVA were observed in 7 of 10 patients and remainder 3 showed reduced skin reactions(p=0.001). In IgE-ELISA inhibition test, the IgE-binding capacities of irradiated-OVA reduced 1/80 (50% inhibition concentration: native-OVA-0.1 microgram/mL, irradiated-OVA-8 microgram/mL), respectively. CONCLUSION: We suggest that the allergenicity of OVA can be reduced by the treatment with gamma irradiation.

Panonychus citri induced allergy among Yuzu farm workers in Koheung area / 천식및알레르기

BACKGROUND: Citrus red mite (CRM; Panonychus citri), which damages the peels and leaves of Citrus, has been reported as an important occupational allergen in Citrus farm workers. Yuzu belongs to the Citrus genus and its peels are the favorite material for tea in Korea. AIMS: We evaluated the prevalence of the sensitization to CRM in Yuzu farm workers in Koheung area (Southern provinces of Korean peninsula) and analyzed the allergenicity of CRM and the cross-reactivity between CRM and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (DP) with the sera of the workers and urbanites. METHODS: One hundred and eleven Yuzu farm workers and 36 respiratory allergic urban patients were enrolled in this study. Skin prick test (SPT) to CRM and DP was performed. CRM specific IgE was detected by ELISA and immunoblotting method. Cross-reactivity was investigated through inhibition ELISA and inhibition immunoblotting. RESULTS: About 39% of the workers showed positive response to CRM in SPT. Prevalence of allergic disease was 66%. Symptoms were associated with their work in 53% of patients. CRM-specific IgE from workers was not inhibited by DP crude antigen but CRM-specific IgE from urban patients was inhibited by DP crude antigen by an average of 70%. With immuno- blotting, we could identify 14.5, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 32, 33, 49.5 kDa CRM allergens with the sera of the worker. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that CRM is one of the unique occupational allergens to the Yuzu farm workers. Cross-reactivity between CRM and DP was found in urban patients.