N-terminal hevein-like domains (4.3 kDa) but not 31 kDa endochitinases are responsible for IgE-mediated in vitro and in vivo reactions in latex-fruit syndrome

Isolated hevein-like domains, but not 31-kd endochitinases, are responsible for IgE-mediated in vitro and in vivo reactions in latex-fruit syndrome.

Background Individuals with natural rubber latex allergy often have immediate reactions to plant-derived foods and fresh fruits, such as avocado and banana. IgE of these patients has been shown to bind endochitinases containing an N-terminal hevein-like domain (HLD). However, evidence on 31-kd endochitinase-induced reactions in vivo is lacking. Objective We sought to assess the clinical significance of 31-kd endochitinases and isolated HLDs in latex-fruit syndrome. Methods The 31-kd endochitinases and corresponding HLDs were purified or produced from avocado, banana, latex, and wheat germ. Skin prick test reactivities against purified proteins were examined in 15 patients with natural rubbe…