Buckwheat 13S globulin (Fag e 1)

Buckwheat 13S globulin, primarily identified as the major allergen Fag e 1, is the most abundant seed storage protein in common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) (Taylor et al., 2016). It is a hexameric protein belonging to the legumin-like (11S/13S) globulin family within the cupin superfamily, functioning as a nutrient reservoir for the plant embryo during germination (Adachi et al., 2003). In humans, this protein is a potent trigger for IgE-mediated hypersensitivity, often leading to severe allergic reactions such as asthma, urticaria, and life-threatening anaphylaxis (Urisu et al., 1994). Although it does not serve as a traditional drug receptor, it is the primary target for component-resolved diagnostics and allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) (Katayama et al., 2018). AIT involves the controlled administration of buckwheat extracts to induce immune tolerance and reduce the risk of systemic reactions (Satoh et al., 2014). Additionally, biotechnological efforts are underway to develop hypoallergenic buckwheat cultivars by modifying or silencing the genes encoding the 13S globulin subunits (Monshi et al., 2020).

Other names

Fag e 1Legumin-like protein11S globulin-like leguminBW24KDFag e 1.0101

Induction of immune tolerance through the modulation of T-cell responses, shifting from a Th2-dominated allergic response to a Th1 or Treg-mediated response, and promoting the production of IgG4 blocking antibodies.