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Basidiomycete allergens: comparison of three Ganoderma species
W E Horner1, A Helbling, S B Lehrer
1Tulane University School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112.
Allergy
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Ganoderma basidiospores are abundant airborne allergens causing respiratory issues. This study found spores and mycelia are richer sources of Ganoderma allergens than caps, with minor species differences.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Immunology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Basidiospores, particularly from Ganoderma species, are prevalent in the atmosphere globally.
- Ganoderma basidiospores are recognized triggers of respiratory allergies.
- Understanding the specific allergen components is crucial for managing allergic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize allergen components in various extracts of Ganoderma species (G. meredithae, G. lucidum, G. applanatum).
- To compare the allergenic potential of spores, caps, and mycelial extracts.
- To investigate the temporal expression of allergens in cultured mycelia and supernatants.
Main Methods:
- Radioallergosorbent test (RAST) inhibition assays were performed.
- Immunoglobulin E (IgE) blots were utilized in conjunction with isoelectric focusing (IEF) and SDS-PAGE.
- Protein profiles were analyzed using Coomassie blue (CB) staining.
Main Results:
- RAST inhibition indicated spores were more potent inhibitors than caps for G. meredithae and G. lucidum.
- IEF and SDS-PAGE revealed a complex mixture of protein bands in Ganoderma extracts, with numerous allergen bands detected by IgE blotting.
- Spores and mycelia demonstrated higher allergenic activity compared to caps, with allergens also detected in culture supernatants.
Conclusions:
- Ganoderma species harbor a diverse array of allergens, with spores and mycelia being superior sources.
- Allergen profiles show minimal variation across the studied Ganoderma species.
- These findings contribute to understanding airborne fungal allergens and their role in respiratory allergies.
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