Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 17, 2026
Whole Blood Assay with Dual Co-Stimulation for Antigen-Specific Analysis of Host Immunity to Fungal and Viral Pathogens
Published on: September 20, 2024
Molecular biology and immunology of fungal allergens
V P Kurup1, B Banerjee, K J Kelly
1Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, and Research Service, Allergy-Immunology Division, VA Medical Center, 5000 West National Avenue Milwaukee, WI, 151-1, 53295 Milwaukee, Wisconsin USA.
Abstract:
Fungi are non-chlorophyllus microorganisms, which constitutes the main source of outdoor and indoor allergens. The antigens present in the spores and fragments of hyphae induce allergic responses in sensitized patients. The frequently recognized fungi associated with asthma include Alternaria, Cladosporium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium. With the advent of molecular biology techniques a number of fungal genes encoding relevant allergens have been cloned and the expressed allergens purified and characterized. In this review, we have presented the recent developments, where recombinant allergens have been used in the precise diagnosis of fungal allergy. We have also discussed the role played by these allergens and the T- and B-cell epitopes in the immune mechanism in fungal allergy.
Insights
Fungal allergens from microorganisms like Alternaria and Aspergillus are key triggers for asthma and allergies. Recombinant allergens are now improving the precise diagnosis of fungal allergy.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Immunology
- Allergology
Background:
- Fungi are significant sources of indoor and outdoor allergens, triggering allergic responses in sensitized individuals.
- Commonly implicated fungi in asthma include Alternaria, Cladosporium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium.
- Antigens from fungal spores and hyphae fragments are responsible for allergic reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in the use of recombinant allergens for diagnosing fungal allergy.
- To discuss the role of fungal allergens and their epitopes in the immune mechanisms of fungal allergy.
Main Methods:
- Application of molecular biology techniques for cloning fungal genes encoding allergens.
- Purification and characterization of expressed recombinant fungal allergens.
- Review of studies utilizing recombinant allergens for diagnostic purposes.
Main Results:
- Recombinant allergens enable more precise diagnosis of fungal allergy.
- Characterization of T- and B-cell epitopes provides insights into immune responses.
- Advancements in molecular techniques have facilitated allergen cloning and expression.
Conclusions:
- Recombinant allergens represent a significant development in the accurate diagnosis of fungal allergy.
- Understanding allergen epitopes is crucial for elucidating the immune mechanisms underlying fungal allergy.
- Further research utilizing recombinant allergens can enhance diagnostic strategies and therapeutic approaches.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:26Antigens Involved in Adaptive Immunity
Complete Antigens
Complete antigens possess both immunogenicity and reactivity.
02:06Allergic Reactions
01:10Antibody Structure
Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins (Ig), are essential players of the adaptive immune system. These antigen-binding proteins are produced by B cells and make up 20 percent of the total blood plasma by weight. In mammals, antibodies fall into five different classes, which each elicits a different biological response upon antigen binding.
The Y-Shaped Structure of Antibodies Consists of Four Polypeptide Chains
Antibodies consist of four polypeptide chains: two identical heavy...
00:42Cross-reactivity
01:28Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
01:27Allergic Drug Reactions