Allergen Ara h 1 (Ara h 1)

Ara h 1 is a major peanut allergen belonging to the vicilin-like 7S globulin family within the cupin superfamily [2, 5]. It is a highly stable, homotrimeric seed storage protein that constitutes approximately 12-16% of the total protein in peanuts [2, 8]. Due to its robust structure, Ara h 1 is resistant to heat and proteolytic digestion, allowing it to reach the intestinal mucosa in an immunologically active form [5, 15]. In sensitized individuals, Ara h 1 cross-links IgE antibodies on the surface of mast cells and basophils, triggering the release of inflammatory mediators that cause symptoms ranging from mild urticaria to life-threatening anaphylaxis [5, 18]. It is recognized by serum IgE in up to 95% of peanut-allergic patients in North America, making it a critical target for diagnosis and treatment [2, 19]. Therapeutic strategies targeting Ara h 1 include oral immunotherapy (OIT), such as the FDA-approved Palforzia, which induces desensitization through gradual exposure [6, 14]. Additionally, research into recombinant hypoallergenic variants and T-cell epitope-based peptides aims to provide safer alternatives for inducing immune tolerance [1, 7].

Other names

Allergen Ara h 1.0101Allergen Ara h IVicilin7S globulinVicilin-like seed storage proteinArachis hypogaea 1

Oral immunotherapy (desensitization), IgE neutralization, T-cell tolerance induction