Anthoxanthum odoratum pollen allergen extract

Anthoxanthum odoratum pollen allergen extract is a biological product derived from the pollen of Sweet Vernal Grass, utilized primarily in allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) (FDA, 2014). The extract is a heterogeneous mixture of proteins, with major allergens such as Anth o 1 (a Group 1 grass allergen/beta-expansin) and Anth o 5 serving as the primary immunogenic components (WHO/IUIS Allergen Nomenclature). These proteins are recognized by IgE antibodies in sensitized individuals, triggering the release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells and basophils, which results in the clinical manifestations of allergic rhinitis and asthma (PubMed: 24388012). In a therapeutic context, the extract is administered sublingually or subcutaneously to reprogram the immune system. The mechanism involves the induction of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and the production of allergen-specific IgG4 'blocking' antibodies, which neutralize the allergen before it can bind to IgE on effector cells (J Allergy Clin Immunol, 2014). This shift from a Th2-mediated allergic response to a tolerant state provides long-term relief from symptoms and may prevent the progression of allergic disease.

Other names

Sweet vernal grass pollen allergen extractAnth o 1Anth o 2Anth o 4Anth o 5Anth o 7Anth o 12Sweet vernal grass pollen

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) involves the repeated administration of specific allergens to induce immunological tolerance. This process shifts the immune response from a Th2-dominated profile to a Th1 and T-regulatory (Treg) cell response, leading to the production of allergen-specific IgG4 'blocking' antibodies that compete with IgE for allergen binding and suppress the activation of mast cells and basophils (J Allergy Clin Immunol, 2014).