Kapok Allergens

Abstract

The components in extracts of aged kapok have been separated into some fractions and data are presented on their chemical composition and physicochemical properties. Clinical assays by means of intradermal tests in hypersensitive atoplc individuals, together with calculations on the quantities of substance injected, indicate undialyzed kapok extracts to be contaminated with a non-specific histamine-liberator of low molecular weight. The specific kapok allergens fall in the category of inhalant atopens by meeting several requirements: amount of substance needed for eliciting positive intracutaneous reactions in sensitized persons (2 [mu]g), mean molecular size (sedimentation constant 2.5) and incorporation of sites of N-glycosidic linkage. Ageing of kapok fibers favors the formation of mixtures of glycopeptides acting as atopic allergens by virtue of these particular characteristics. A possible mechanism of sensitization to these molecules is discussed.