Abstract
Allergy to walnut is the most frequently reported tree nut allergy in the United States. Walnut 2S albumin, a vicilin-like protein, and a lipid transfer protein allergen have previously been described. Our objective was to clone and express a cDNA encoding a legumin group protein, assess IgE-binding with sera from walnut allergic patients, and investigate cross-reactivity with selected nuts. Primers were used to obtain the cDNA by 5′ and 3′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends from walnut mRNA. The cDNA was subcloned into the pMAL-c2X vector and the recombinant fusion protein, named rJug r 4, was expressed in Escherichia coli. The obtained cDNA encoded a precursor protein with a predicted molecular weight of 58.1 kD, which showed significant sequence homology to hazelnut and cashew legumin allergens. Serum IgE from 21 of 37 (57%) patients bound the rJug r 4 fusion protein. In vitro cross-reactivity was demonstrated with hazelnut, cashew, and peanut protein extracts.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 8369-8375 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry |
Volume | 54 |
Issue number | 21 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Oct 18 2006 |
Keywords
- cDNA
- Food allergy
- Jug r 4
- Legumin group protein
- Peanut allergy
- Tree nut allergy
- Walnut
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Agricultural and Biological Sciences (miscellaneous)
- Food Science
- Chemistry (miscellaneous)