Identification and Characterization of Plant Allergens Using Proteomic Approaches

Rapid identification of protein allergens is important for understanding the mechanisms of pathogenesis of allergen induced diseases, and for improving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. The most frequently used methods for characterizing protein allergens are two dimensional gel electrophoresis and immunoblot analysis. The amino acid sequences of allergens have usually been determined by Edman degradation as well as by mass spectrometry. Recent investigations have revealed a complex heterogeneity of allergen types that have varying reactivities to immunoglobulin E antibodies. This information is extremely important for the design of relevant diagnostic assays and therapeutic products. This review article attempts to evaluate the various proteomic techniques that have been used to identify and characterize protein allergens.