Major pollen allergen Bet v 1-A (Bet v 1)

Bet v 1 is the major allergen of white birch (Betula verrucosa) pollen and is recognized as the primary cause of seasonal allergic rhinitis in temperate regions. Structurally, it belongs to the Pathogenesis-Related protein family 10 (PR-10), featuring a characteristic large internal hydrophobic cavity that allows it to bind various small molecules, including fatty acids, flavonoids, and plant hormones (Source: UniProt P15494). In susceptible individuals, exposure to Bet v 1 triggers the production of specific IgE antibodies, leading to Type I hypersensitivity reactions upon re-exposure. Due to its structural similarity to other PR-10 proteins found in fruits and vegetables, such as Mal d 1 in apples, Bet v 1 is the leading cause of oral allergy syndrome through cross-reactivity (Source: PubMed PMC4378250). Clinically, Bet v 1 is the central target for allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), where controlled exposure to the protein is used to desensitize the immune system. Modern therapeutic approaches utilize both standardized natural extracts and recombinant versions of the protein to induce the production of protective IgG4 antibodies and restore T-cell balance (Source: PubMed PMC6143542).

Other names

Bet v 1-AMajor birch pollen allergenWhite birch pollen allergenPathogenesis-related protein 10PR-10Bet v I

Induces immune tolerance through allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), promoting a shift from a Th2 to a Th1/Treg immune response and stimulating the production of allergen-specific IgG4 blocking antibodies (Source: PMID: 31102553).