Major allergen Dac g 6 (Dac g 6)

Dac g 6 is a major protein allergen derived from the pollen of Dactylis glomerata, commonly known as Orchard grass or Cocksfoot grass (UniProt P43215). It belongs to the Group 6 grass pollen allergens, which are typically small, acidic proteins with a molecular weight of approximately 11-12 kDa (WHO/IUIS Allergen Nomenclature). In sensitized individuals, Dac g 6 binds to specific IgE antibodies on the surface of mast cells and basophils, triggering the release of inflammatory mediators that cause symptoms of allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and asthma (PubMed: 7521631). While its exact biological function in the plant is not fully characterized, it is a critical target in the diagnosis and treatment of seasonal allergies. Therapeutic intervention involves allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), where controlled exposure to the allergen aims to desensitize the immune system and induce long-term tolerance (PubMed: 29055014). Monitoring of Dac g 6-specific IgE and IgG4 levels is often used to assess patient sensitivity and the efficacy of treatment.

Other names

Dactylis glomerata allergen 6Orchard grass allergen 6Cocksfoot grass allergen 6

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) works by inducing immune tolerance through the administration of increasing doses of the allergen, leading to a shift from a Th2 to a Th1 immune response, the production of regulatory T cells, and the induction of allergen-specific IgG4 antibodies that block IgE-mediated mast cell activation (PubMed: 29055014).