[Allergens of mites]. / Alergeny roztoczy.

Mite allergens belong to the group of inhalant allergens and represent antigenic substances which are particutlarly important in the pathogenesis of respiratory system diseases and skin diseases. The most common diseases associated with chronic exposure to these aeroallergens include: allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma and atopic dermatitis. Mite allergens are simple proteins or glycoproteins with different molecular structures and various biochemical functions. The sensitizing capacity of these proteins is connected from their physicochemical properties. Individual allergens perform, among others, the functions of structural proteins, act as enzymes, transport lipids, bind metal ions, and are capable of glycosylation. In addition, mite allergenic proteases degrade proteins of the skin epithelium-resulting in a weakening of its natural protective barrier-and induce the immune response. The proteases also induce the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines: interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), eotaxin, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor-GM-CSF. The article presents the tertiary structure of major and mid-range mite allergens and their classification. Based on literature reports concerning the chemical structure of allergenic proteins, it was emphasized that the structural differences between homologous proteins with allergenic pozoproperties relate to the distribution of amino acid residues on the surface of the molecule. IgE binding affinity and the similarities and differences in the amino acid sequence of the allergens were also the basis for determining cross-reactivity of allergenic proteins. The paper shows an example of this phenomenon, describing the existence of common allergens for various mite species.

[Influence of oxidative stress on tissue regeneration]. / Wpllyw stresu oksydacyjnego na procesy regeneracji tkankowej.

The redox reactions involving oxidants and antioxidants play a key role in many biochemical pathways and cellular biosynthesis and regulation processes at the molecular level. Normally, there is the balance between oxidative and reductive processes in the organism. If oxidative processes are prevalent, it will result in oxidative stress. It leads to damage of many biological structures, resulting in impairment of many processes at the molecular level. Lipids and proteins are most sensitive to oxidative stress structures. Lipid oxidation can result in degradation of the cell membrane, whereas the oxidation of proteins can result in a change of their properties. It is suggested that oxidative processes accompany inflammation and affect their growth. This situation can lead to a number of serious diseases such as tumors. Many scientists claim that oxidative stress causes many pathological conditions. Enzymes and antioxidants, which are one of the body's defenses, can prevent oxidative processes.