Fel d 1 gene locus (Fel d 1)

Fel d 1 is the primary allergen produced by domestic cats (Felis catus), responsible for approximately 60-90% of cat-related allergies in humans (PMID: 35314715). The Fel d 1 gene locus consists of two distinct genes, CH1 (or Feld1A) and CH2 (or Feld1B), which encode the subunits of a secretoglobin heterodimer (UniProt: P30438, P30440). While the exact biological function of Fel d 1 in cats is not fully understood, it is hypothesized to be involved in pheromone transport or skin lipid homeostasis (PMID: 30102919). This locus is a significant therapeutic target for gene-editing interventions, such as CRISPR/Cas9, which aim to permanently eliminate allergen production to create hypoallergenic cats (Brackett et al., 2022, The CRISPR Journal). By targeting the conserved regions of the CH1 and CH2 genes, researchers can disrupt the protein's synthesis without apparent adverse effects on the animal's health in preliminary studies. This approach offers a potential cure for feline-induced allergies, contrasting with symptomatic treatments or dietary interventions that only partially reduce allergen shedding. However, the long-term evolutionary and physiological consequences of removing this locus remain a subject of ongoing research.

Other names

Major cat allergen 1Felis domesticus allergen 1CH1 and CH2 genesFeld1A and Feld1BSecretoglobin family 1D member 1

Targeted gene disruption or knockout via site-specific endonucleases to eliminate the production of the Fel d 1 protein at the source.