Biochemical Characteristics and Allergenic Activity of Common Fungus Allergens

Fungi form a large kingdom with more than 1.5 million species. Fungal spores are universal atmospheric components and are generally recognized as important causes of allergic disorders, including allergic rhinitis, allergic rhinosinusitis, asthma, and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. The 4 genera which have the closest connection with allergic disorder are Cladosporium, Alternaria, Aspergillus and Penicillium. The cDNA sequences of many fungi allergens and the amino acids involved in their immunoglobulin E binding and T-cell activation have already been elucidated. Until now, 111 allergens from 29 fungal genera have been approved by the International Allergen Nomenclature Sub-committee. This review mainly focuses on the biochemical characteristics and allergenic activity of important allergens from common environmental fungi.