Detection of Cross-Reactive Allergens in Kentucky Bluegrass Pollen and Six Other Grasses by Crossed Radioimmunoelectrophoresis

Abstract

Using crossed immunoelectrophoretic analysis of an aqueous extract of Kentucky bluegrass (KBG) pollen employing hyperimmune rabbit and sheep precipitating antibodies to KBG and various grasses we detected at least 33 antigenic components. The majority of these antigens were extractable from the pollen within a period of 15 min and possessed anodal electrophoretic mobility. The extensive recognition of antigens in the KBG extract by antibodies raised to false oat, and to the combined extracts of timothy, orchard, meadow, velvet and rye grasses indicate that these grasses contain many cross-reactive antigens. One of the KBG antigens with cathodal mobility – the major component of the previously isolated allergen C – was identified as immunologicaily identical to timothy Ag 30. Crossed radioimmunoelectrophoretic analysis revealed differences in the extent to which IgE antibodies present in sera of individuals allergic to KBG bound to various antigens of KBG pollen. Those antigens that were recognized as allergens by all of the allergic sera examined were regarded as candidates for future isolation and characterization.