Dactylis glomerata allergen 1 (Dac g 1)

Dac g 1 is a major group 1 allergen derived from the pollen of Dactylis glomerata, commonly known as orchard grass or cocksfoot. Biologically, it functions as a beta-expansin, a protein that facilitates plant reproduction by loosening cell walls to allow pollen tube penetration. In susceptible individuals, Dac g 1 is a potent trigger for Type I hypersensitivity, contributing significantly to symptoms of hay fever, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. It is recognized by IgE antibodies in approximately 95% of grass pollen-allergic patients, making it a critical component in both diagnosis and treatment. Therapeutic intervention typically involves allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) using standardized extracts, such as Oralair, to desensitize the immune system and promote long-term clinical tolerance.

Other names

Ag Dg1Beta-expansinGroup 1 grass allergenOrchard grass allergen 1

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) 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 allergen-specific IgG4 blocking antibodies.