Peanut Allergen

Peanut kernels contain many allergens that can cause Type 1 IgE (immunoglobulin E) reactions, which can trigger an immediate, severe or fatal reaction. By identifying the IgE-binding protein, we were able to improve immunotherapeutic treatments for this severe reaction and develop tests that better detect peanut allergens, even when hidden in additives.

Peanuts from Hamburg, Germany, were obtained, and the total RNA of the raw peanuts was isolated using an extraction buffer. The membranes were hybridized with PCR-amplified cDNA probes specifically designed for Ara h 1 and Ara h 2, the proteins we wanted to focus on. Messenger RNAs were isolated from total RNA with the PolyATtract mRNA Isolation System IV. cDNA phages were synthesized, and the phages that had peanut allergens were selected.
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In our study, we discovered four new peanut allergens, Ara h 4, Ara h 5, Ara h 6, and Ara h 7, because of their ability to bind serum IgE from patients sensitive to peanuts. We found that profilin isn’t strongly found in peanut seeds. Using cloning, we ethically extracted DNA from peanuts and discovered four new allergens that are usually hidden. Because of this, we can study the impact that each allergen has on the severity of the reaction.

Kleber-Janke T, Crameri R, Appenzeller U, Schlaak M, Becker WM. Selective cloning of peanut allergens, including profilin and 2S albumins, by phage display technology. Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 1999 Aug;119(4):265-74. doi: 10.1159/000024203. PMID: 10474031.