Bet v 1

Bet v 1 is the major allergen from birch (Betula verrucosa) pollen and serves as the prototype for the pathogenesis-related class 10 (PR-10) protein family. It is a small, cytosolic protein with a molecular weight of approximately 17–17.5 kDa. Bet v 1 adopts a characteristic fold consisting of a curved seven-stranded antiparallel β-sheet, two short α-helices, and an extended C-terminal helix that together create an enlarged inner cavity typical for PR-10 proteins. The large hydrophobic cavity functions as a ligand-binding site for various small molecules such as lipids, hormones, flavonoids, and siderophores. Multiple isoforms exist with minor sequence variations but significant differences in IgE-binding capacity. It is believed to play roles in plant defense mechanisms against pathogens or stress conditions. In its apo-form (unbound by iron), Bet v 1 can prime T cells toward Th2 responses, while holo-form (iron-bound) may suppress immune activation via induction of apoptosis in immune cells. Binding ligands stabilizes the conformation of Bet v 1.

Other names

Bet v 1.0101Bet v 1.0201Bet v 1.0102PR-10 protein

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