Allergens in Hymenoptera venom XXIV: the amino acid sequences of imported fire ant venom allergens Sol i II, Sol i III, and Sol i IV
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Imported fire ant venom allergens, Sol i II, III, and IV, were sequenced. These potent allergens cause severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis in susceptible individuals.
Area Of Science
- Allergen research
- Immunology
- Entomology
Background
- Imported fire ants are a major cause of insect venom allergy in the Southeastern US.
- Their allergens are highly potent, capable of causing sensitization and anaphylaxis at nanogram doses.
Purpose Of The Study
- To determine the complete amino acid sequences of imported fire ant venom allergens Sol i II, III, and IV.
- To characterize the structural properties and potential relationships of these allergens.
Main Methods
- Solid-phase protein sequencing of overlapping peptide fragments was used.
- Molecular weights were determined.
- Structural relationships to known proteins were analyzed.
Main Results
- Sol i II: 119 amino acids, 13,217 Da, disulfide-linked dimer, no phospholipase activity.
- Sol i IV: 117 amino acids, 13,340 Da, monomer, 35% sequence identity to Sol i II.
- Sol i III: 212 amino acids, 24,040 Da, 44-50% identity to vespid venom antigen 5 molecules, but limited IgE cross-reactivity.
Conclusions
- The complete amino acid sequences of key imported fire ant allergens have been elucidated.
- Structural analysis reveals unique properties and potential evolutionary links to wasps.
- Understanding these allergens is crucial for managing fire ant venom allergies.