The biological function of allergens: relevant for the induction of allergic diseases?

During the last 10 years an increasing number of allergens were identified and biochemically as well as immunologically characterized. More and more information on the primary structure of these molecules, revealed by recombinant technologies, became available. Furthermore for several allergens the biological functions could be elucidated. Most recently it was shown that beside IgE-binding capacity functional properties such as enzyme activity may contribute to the allergenicity and the induction of allergic inflammation. These findings could stimulate novel concepts in allergy prevention and therapy. This review summarizes recent data in this area.