Amaranthus species around Bangkok, Thailand and the release of allergenic proteins from their pollens

Asian Pacific Journal of Allergy and Immunology
Umaporn SiriwattanakulWisuwat Songnuan

Abstract

Pollen of Amaranthus L., commonly known as careless weed or Phak-khom in Thai, has become one of the major causes of airway allergy in many countries including Thailand. Despite its recognized importance, there is no available information about which Amaranthus species are producing allergenic pollen more likely to affect Thai patients. Furthermore, only allergenic proteins released from pollen can cause allergy. This study aimed to survey species of Amaranthus found in Bangkok and to investigate the impact of water on pollen damage and protein release from Amaranthus pollens. Amaranthus inflorescences were sampled and identified using the identification key provided in "Flora of Thailand". Shed pollens were collected on day 1, 3 and 7 after shedding. Ten mg of pollens in distilled water including damaged pollens were counted under a light microscope. In addition, supernatant was analyzed for concentration of proteins released from pollens using Bradford's assay. Profiles of released proteins and IgE binding proteins were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and Western blot. Three species of Amaranthus-A. hybridus, A. spinosus, and A. viridis were identified. SDS-PAGE analysis revealed at least twelve protein bands with MW ranging from 10 to ...Continue Reading

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