Analysis of the Prevalence of Sensitization to Plants Containing Gibberellins Using Realistic Skin Prick Tests

Gibberellin-related proteins (GRPs) are proteins contained in both pollens and vegetables and are associated with an increased risk of severe food allergy reactions. The best characterized one the only one for which a specific IgE (Immunoglobulin E) may be dosed in current clinical practice is Pru p 7, an allergen contained in peaches (Prunus persica). Sensitization to GRPs seems to be greater in areas with high exposure to pollens of the Cupressaceae family (as in the Montpellier region in Southern France); a subtype of Cupressaceae pollinosis, characterized by sensitization to Pru p 7 has been shown to be responsible for severe peach allergies.

To date, there has been no real analysis of the prevalence of sensitization to GRPs, or of possible cross-sensitization between plants and foods containing GRPs. Main food containing GRPs with a high level of homology with Pru p 7 include apples (Malus domestica, 97.3%), sesame (Sesamum indicum, 91.9%), carrots (Daucus carota subsp. Sativus, 88.9%), lemons and oranges (different species, with a homology of 87.3%).

If investigators consider that sensitization to GRPs could be associated with severe allergic hypersensitivity reactions, it is important to detect the prevalence of sensitization to these allergens and to find sensitization profiles for these patients in order to gain a better understanding of this type of allergy and offer a more appropriate and preventive management to allergic patients. This remains today a major challenge for the allergy community in the Mediterranean region.

This study aims to investigate the rate of sensitization to peach and 5 other allergens containing gibberellins, chosen on the basis of their homology with Pru p 7 (the gibberellin from Prunus persica): carrot, lemon, orange, apple and sesame.