Molecular sensitization patterns to mammalian allergens - possible impact on diagnostics and therapy

Growing ownership and presence of pets in households have contributed to increasing cases of pet-related allergies globally. In this study, we aim to analyze molecular sensitization patterns towards pet animals among a group of individuals (n = 84) who were experiencing respiratory symptoms upon exposure to furry pets. Specific IgEs (sIgEs) towards furry animal allergens from 84 individuals were tested in vitro using the ALEX² (Allergy Explorer) macroarray. The sequence and structural homology of common pet allergens were analyzed to evaluate the molecular basis of sensitization. Tested individuals showed allergic responses towards 20 allergens belonging to secretoglobin, lipocalin, and serum albumin protein families from cat, dog, horse, rabbit, mouse, guinea pig, hamster, and cow. Sensitization towards cats and dogs was found to be dominant, and cat allergen Fel d 1 was identified as the major sensitizer for the tested population, with 84.5% of patients having IgE against the protein. Major dog allergens were shown to be Can f 1 (32.1% of patients reacting) and Can f 6 (26.1%). The majority of the population (61.9%) had IgE to multiple allergens, largely within the lipocalin and serum albumin allergen families. This study reports higher sensitization towards cat and dog allergens for the individuals incorporated in the study. Understanding patterns of IgE sensitization to pets may help in diagnosis and development of better allergy treatments.