Cor a 1.0103

Cor a 1 is a protein that triggers allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. It is part of a family of proteins that includes other major tree pollen allergens such as Bet v 1 from birch and Aln g 1 from alder. These proteins share a high degree of similarity in their amino acid sequences, leading to cross-reactivity among different tree pollens .

Recombinant Cor a 1 is produced using genetic engineering techniques. The gene encoding Cor a 1 is cloned and expressed in a suitable host, such as Escherichia coli or insect cells. This allows for the production of large quantities of the allergen in a controlled environment, which is essential for research and clinical applications .

Studies have identified multiple isoforms of Cor a 1, each with slight variations in their amino acid sequences. These isoforms can exhibit different immunological properties, such as varying degrees of IgE binding and T-cell reactivity. Understanding these differences is crucial for developing effective diagnostic tools and immunotherapies .

Recombinant Cor a 1 has been shown to retain the immunological properties of the natural allergen. It can bind to IgE antibodies from allergic patients and stimulate T-cells, making it a valuable tool for studying the immune response to hazel pollen. The recombinant form also allows for the identification of specific epitopes, which are the parts of the allergen recognized by the immune system .

The availability of recombinant Cor a 1 has significant implications for allergy diagnosis and treatment. It can be used to develop more accurate diagnostic tests, such as skin prick tests and specific IgE assays. Additionally, recombinant allergens are being explored for use in allergen-specific immunotherapy, which aims to desensitize patients to the allergen and reduce allergic symptoms .