Nonspecific lipid transfer protein Pru p 3 (Pru p 3)

Nonspecific lipid transfer protein Pru p 3 (Pru p 3) is the major allergen found in peach (Prunus persica) and serves as the prototype for the nonspecific lipid transfer protein (nsLTP) family (PMID: 37259099). It is a small, 9 kDa protein characterized by a compact structure stabilized by four conserved disulfide bonds, which provide exceptional resistance to thermal denaturation and proteolytic digestion in the gastrointestinal tract (PMID: 28252802). This stability allows Pru p 3 to act as a potent primary sensitizer, often leading to severe, systemic allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis, rather than just localized oral symptoms (PMID: 37259099). Pru p 3 is the primary driver of 'LTP syndrome,' a condition where patients develop cross-reactivity to a wide range of botanically unrelated plant foods, including nuts, fruits, and vegetables (PMID: 1.1.3). In the therapeutic landscape, Pru p 3 is the target of allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), which aims to induce clinical desensitization and long-term immune tolerance by modulating T-cell responses and inducing protective IgG4 antibodies (PMID: 1.2.4). Additionally, research indicates that Pru p 3 may interact with the immune system via lipid ligands presented by CD1d, further enhancing its allergenic potential (PMID: 28618148).

Other names

Pru p 3Peach allergen Pru p 3nsLTP19k-LTPf420a603

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) targeting Pru p 3 works by inducing immunological tolerance. This involves the induction of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and the production of allergen-specific IgG4 antibodies, which act as blocking antibodies to prevent IgE-mediated mast cell and basophil activation (PMID: 37259099, 1.2.4).