Birch pollen allergen (Betula verrucosa) (Bet v 1)

Birch pollen allergens, specifically the major allergen Bet v 1, are the primary triggers for seasonal allergic rhinitis and asthma in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere (UniProt P15494). Bet v 1 is a member of the pathogenesis-related protein family 10 (PR-10) and is highly cross-reactive with homologous proteins found in various fruits and vegetables, such as Mal d 1 in apples, leading to pollen-food allergy syndrome (Biedermann et al., 2019). The immune response to these allergens involves the cross-linking of IgE antibodies on the surface of mast cells and basophils, resulting in the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine and leukotrienes (Valenta et al., 2010). This cascade leads to the clinical symptoms of hay fever, including sneezing, rhinorrhea, and ocular itching. Therapeutic strategies include symptomatic relief with antihistamines and corticosteroids, as well as disease-modifying allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) such as Itulazax (EMA, 2019). AIT aims to reprogram the immune system toward tolerance by modulating T-cell responses and inducing protective IgG4 antibodies that block IgE binding (WHO/WAO).

Other names

Bet v 1Major birch pollen allergenSilver birch allergenBetula verrucosa pollen allergenPR-10 birch allergen

Induction of peripheral T-cell tolerance, expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs), and production of allergen-specific IgG4 blocking antibodies to prevent IgE-mediated mast cell activation (Valenta et al., 2010; EMA, 2019).