Identification of Major Allergens in Watermelon
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Publication date
2009
Authors
Cuesta-Herranz, Javier
Cases, Barbara
Pérez-Gordo, Marina
Figueredo, Elena
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Karger
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Pastor C, Cuesta-Herranz J, Cases B, Pérez-Gordo M, Figueredo E, de las Heras M, Vivanco F. Identification of major allergens in watermelon. Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2009;149(4):291-8. doi: 10.1159/000205574. Epub 2009 Mar 17. PMID: 19295232.
Abstract
Background: Watermelon is a worldwide consumed Cucurbitaceae fruit that can elicit allergic reactions. However, the major allergens of watermelon are not known. The aim of this study is to identify and characterize major allergens in watermelon.
Methods: Twenty-three patients allergic to watermelon took part in the study. The diagnosis was based on a history of symptoms and positive skin prick-prick tests to watermelon, confirmed by positive open oral challenge testing to watermelon pulp. Allergenic components were detected by SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting. Molecular characterization of IgE-binding bands was performed by N-terminal amino acid sequencing and mass spectrometry. Allergens were purified combining several chromatographic steps.
Results: Several IgE binding bands (8-120 kDa) were detected in watermelon extract. Three major allergens were identified as malate dehydrogenase (36 kDa), triose phosphate isomerase (28 kDa) and profilin (13 kDa). Purified allergens individually inhibited IgE binding to the whole watermelon extract.
Conclusions: All in all these results indicate that malate dehydrogenase, triose phosphate isomerase and profilin are major allergens involved in watermelon allergy.