Sf9 insect cells.
nsLTP Cor a 8, LTP Cor a 8.
Greater than 80.0% as determined by SDS-PAGE.
Recombinant Non-specific Lipid-Transfer Protein Cor a 8 produced in SF9 is a glycosylated, polypeptide chain having a calculated molecular mass of 11kDa.
Cor a 8.0101 is expressed with a 10xHis tag and purified by proprietary chromatographic techniques.
nsLTP Cor a 8, LTP Cor a 8.
Sf9 insect cells.
Non-specific lipid-transfer proteins (nsLTPs) are a group of proteins known for their ability to bind and transfer lipids across cell membranes. One such protein, Cor a 8, is found in hazelnuts (Corylus avellana) and is a significant allergen for many individuals. This article delves into the background, structure, function, and allergenic properties of Cor a 8, with a focus on its recombinant form.
Cor a 8 belongs to the PR-14 (Pathogenesis-Related family 14) protein family and is part of the prolamin superfamily . It has a molecular weight of approximately 9 kDa . The protein is highly heat-stable and resistant to gastrointestinal digestion, which contributes to its allergenic potential .
The primary function of Cor a 8, like other nsLTPs, is to facilitate the transfer of lipids between membranes. This function is crucial for various biological processes, including membrane biogenesis and the formation of lipid barriers .
Cor a 8 is a well-known allergen, particularly in regions where hazelnut consumption is high. Sensitization to Cor a 8 is more prevalent in non-birch endemic regions, such as the Mediterranean, compared to Northern or Western Europe . The protein can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in sensitized individuals .
Studies have shown that Cor a 8 is highly resistant to enzymatic degradation, which means it can remain intact and allergenic even after passing through the digestive system . This stability is a key factor in its ability to trigger allergic reactions.
Recombinant Cor a 8 is produced using biotechnological methods to replicate the natural protein found in hazelnuts. This recombinant form is used in research to study the protein’s structure, function, and allergenic properties. It is also used in diagnostic tests to identify sensitization to Cor a 8 in individuals with hazelnut allergies .
Research on Cor a 8 has provided valuable insights into the mechanisms of food allergies and the role of nsLTPs in allergenicity. For instance, studies have demonstrated that the allergenic activity of Cor a 8 can be significantly increased in the presence of hazelnut lipids . This finding highlights the importance of the food matrix in modulating the allergenicity of food proteins.
In clinical settings, recombinant Cor a 8 is used in diagnostic tests to assess sensitization in hazelnut-allergic patients. However, it is important to note that Cor a 8-specific IgE levels alone may not be sufficient to differentiate between reactive and non-reactive patients .