Relative reactivity of Aspergillus allergens used in serological tests

P Bowyer1, O Blightman1, D W Denning1

  • 1Faculty of Medicine, University of Manchester, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, UK.

Medical Mycology
|November 10, 2018
PubMed

Insights

This study investigates IgE antibody responses to Aspergillus allergens in allergic conditions like allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and severe asthma with fungal sensitization (SAFS), and chronic pulmonary disease (CCPA). Findings reveal potential cross-reactivity among Aspergillus species, impacting diagnostic accuracy.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Immunology
  • Allergology

Background:

  • Aspergillus species are significant causes of allergic diseases, including allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and severe asthma with fungal sensitization (SAFS).
  • Aspergillus also causes invasive aspergillosis in immunocompromised patients and chronic cavitating pulmonary disease (CCPA) in others.
  • Current diagnostic methods for Aspergillus infections and allergies often rely on detecting antibody responses to Aspergillus allergens, but these can be problematic.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the IgE antibody response to crude and recombinant Aspergillus allergens (Asp f 1, Asp f 2, Asp f 4, Asp f 6).
  • To investigate these responses in individuals with ABPA, SAFS, and CCPA.
  • To explore potential cross-reactivity between Aspergillus allergens using genomic data.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of IgE antibody responses using crude and recombinant Aspergillus allergen tests.
  • Study population included individuals diagnosed with ABPA, SAFS, and CCPA.
  • Genomic information was utilized to assess potential cross-reactive epitopes.

Main Results:

  • Demonstrated IgE antibody responses to specific Aspergillus allergens in patients with allergic conditions and CCPA.
  • Identified potential cross-reactive epitopes within several Aspergillus species.
  • Genomic analysis supports the possibility of cross-reactivity impacting diagnostic specificity.

Conclusions:

  • IgE antibody testing to Aspergillus allergens is crucial for diagnosing allergic conditions and CCPA.
  • Potential cross-reactivity among Aspergillus allergens necessitates careful interpretation of diagnostic tests.
  • Further research into cross-reactive epitopes can improve diagnostic accuracy for Aspergillus-related diseases.

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