Canis familiaris allergen 2 (Can f 2) (Can f 2)

Canis familiaris allergen 2 (Can f 2) is a major allergen produced by the domestic dog, belonging to the lipocalin family of proteins (UniProt: P15413). It is primarily secreted in dog saliva and becomes airborne when attached to dander and hair (WHO/IUIS Allergen Nomenclature). Biologically, Can f 2 functions as a transport protein for small hydrophobic ligands, such as pheromones, which is a characteristic trait of the lipocalin superfamily (PubMed: 15585361). In humans, exposure to Can f 2 can trigger an IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reaction in sensitized individuals, contributing significantly to symptoms of allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma (PubMed: 10474032). As a therapeutic target, it is the focus of allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT), where controlled exposure to the protein is used to induce immunological tolerance and reduce allergic symptoms (PubMed: 22405131). Understanding its structure is crucial due to its high degree of cross-reactivity with other mammalian lipocalins, which can complicate clinical diagnosis and treatment (PubMed: 15585361).

Other names

Can f 2Dog allergen 2Salivary lipocalinAllergen Can f 2

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) involves the administration of increasing doses of the allergen to induce immunological tolerance, characterized by a shift from a Th2 to a Th1/Treg immune response and the production of IgG4 blocking antibodies (PubMed: 22405131).