Assessment of allelic diversity in intron-containing Mal d 1 genes and their association to apple allergenicity
2008

Study of Apple Allergen Mal d 1 Genes and Their Impact on Allergy

Sample size: 14 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Gao Zhongshan, Weg Eric W van de, Matos Catarina I, Arens Paul, Bolhaar Suzanne THP, Knulst Andre C, Li Yinghui, Hoffmann-Sommergruber Karin, Gilissen Luud JWJ

Primary Institution: Zhejiang University

Hypothesis

The study investigates the allelic diversity of Mal d 1 genes in apple cultivars and their association with allergenicity.

Conclusion

The protein variants of Mal d 1.04 and -1.06A are associated with differences in allergenicity among apple cultivars.

Supporting Evidence

  • Mal d 1.01 and Mal d 1.02 were highly conserved across cultivars.
  • Mal d 1.04 and Mal d 1.06A showed significant variability in protein variants.
  • The study confirmed associations between specific Mal d 1 alleles and allergenicity in multiple cultivars.

Takeaway

Some apples can make people allergic, and this study found that certain genes in apples are linked to how allergic they can make someone.

Methodology

The study assessed allelic diversity by sequencing Mal d 1 genes in apple cultivars and compared these with skin prick test responses.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in patient selection for skin prick tests could affect allergenicity results.

Limitations

The study focused only on a limited number of apple cultivars and may not represent all genetic variations.

Participant Demographics

Participants were birch pollen sensitized patients with oral allergy symptoms after eating apples.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2229-8-116

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