Molecular mimicry between cockroach and helminth glutathione S-transferases promotes cross-reactivity and cross-sensitization.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The extensive similarities between helminth proteins and allergens are thought to contribute to helminth-driven allergic sensitization.

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the cross-reactivity between a major glutathione-S transferase allergen of cockroach (Bla g 5) and the glutathione-S transferase of Wuchereria bancrofti (WbGST), a major lymphatic filarial pathogen of humans.

Methods

We compared the molecular and structural similarities between Bla g 5 and WbGST by in silico analysis and by linear epitope mapping. The levels of IgE, IgG, and IgG(4) antibodies were measured in filarial-infected and filarial-uninfected patients. Mice were infected with Heligmosomoides bakeri, and their skin was tested for cross-reactive allergic respons

SUBMITTER: Santiago HC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3387355 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature