Non-specific lipid transfer protein 1 (Amb a 6) (Amb a 6)

Amb a 6 is a 10 kDa non-specific lipid transfer protein (nsLTP) found in the pollen of Ambrosia artemisiifolia, commonly known as short ragweed (Allergen.org; Grijincu et al., 2024). It is classified as a minor allergen but is recognized by approximately 20-30% of individuals sensitized to ragweed pollen (Grijincu et al., 2024; NIH). The protein belongs to the nsLTP family, which is characterized by a compact structure stabilized by four disulfide bridges, granting it high resistance to heat and proteolytic degradation (Planta, 2016; Grijincu et al., 2024). Biologically, nsLTPs are involved in the transport of phospholipids and other lipids across membranes and play a role in plant defense mechanisms (UniProt O04004; Planta, 2016). In allergic individuals, Amb a 6 triggers a Type I hypersensitivity reaction by binding to specific IgE antibodies on the surface of mast cells and basophils (Grijincu et al., 2024). This interaction leads to the release of inflammatory mediators, resulting in clinical symptoms such as allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma (NIH; Grijincu et al., 2024). Amb a 6 is a target for allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), where it is administered in controlled doses to induce immune tolerance (Grijincu et al., 2024). Therapeutic strategies aim to shift the immune response from a Th2-mediated allergic profile to a Th1-mediated or regulatory T cell-mediated profile (Grijincu et al., 2024). It is also used in component-resolved diagnostics to distinguish between genuine ragweed sensitization and cross-reactivity with other plant allergens (Allergen.org).

Other names

Ra6Amb a VInsLTP1Allergen Ra6

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 immune response and the production of blocking IgG4 antibodies.