Pathogenesis-related protein PR-10.01 (Ara h 8) (Ara h 8)

Ara h 8 is a 17 kDa protein from the peanut (Arachis hypogaea) belonging to the pathogenesis-related protein family 10 (PR-10). It is a structural homolog of the major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1 and is primarily associated with Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) or Pollen-Food Allergy Syndrome (PFAS) in individuals sensitized to birch pollen. Unlike the major peanut storage proteins such as Ara h 1, 2, 3, and 6, Ara h 8 is heat-labile and sensitive to proteolytic digestion, which typically results in milder, localized symptoms like itching of the mouth and throat rather than systemic anaphylaxis. In clinical diagnostics, the presence of Ara h 8-specific IgE in the absence of IgE against storage proteins often indicates a low risk for severe peanut allergy and suggests cross-reactivity with tree pollens. While not a traditional therapeutic target for small molecules or biologics, Ara h 8 is a critical component in molecular allergy diagnostics and is present in allergen extracts used for immunotherapy. Its biological function in the peanut plant involves defense against pathogens and the binding of hydrophobic ligands such as flavonoids like quercetin and apigenin. The protein's structure consists of a seven-stranded antiparallel beta-sheet and three alpha-helices, forming a large internal cavity for ligand binding. Understanding Ara h 8 sensitization is essential for distinguishing between primary peanut allergy and secondary cross-reactivity, which informs patient management and risk assessment.

Other names

Ara h 8.0101Ara h 8.0201Bet v 1-homologous allergenPR-10 proteinPeanut allergen Ara h 8

Allergen immunotherapy (desensitization)