Poa pratensis pollen allergen (Poa p)

Poa pratensis pollen allergen refers to the group of allergenic proteins derived from the pollen of Kentucky Blue Grass (Poa pratensis), which is a major source of seasonal aeroallergens in temperate regions (UniProt, WHO/IUIS). The most clinically significant components include the major allergens Poa p 1, a beta-expansin involved in pollen tube growth, and Poa p 5, a ribonuclease (UniProt, PMC). These proteins trigger Type I hypersensitivity reactions in sensitized individuals by cross-linking IgE antibodies on the surface of mast cells and basophils, leading to the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine (PMC, Drugs.com). This process results in the clinical manifestations of seasonal allergic rhinitis, rhinoconjunctivitis, and allergic asthma (Clinicaltrials.eu). In therapeutic contexts, these allergens serve as the primary target for allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), where controlled exposure to the extract induces immune tolerance (Drugs.com, PMC). AIT works by shifting the immune response from a Th2-driven allergic state to a Treg/Th1-mediated tolerant state, characterized by the production of blocking IgG4 antibodies (PMC). This therapeutic approach is currently the only disease-modifying treatment available for patients suffering from grass pollen-induced respiratory allergies (PMC).

Other names

Kentucky Blue Grass pollen allergenMeadow grass pollen allergenPoa p 1Poa p 5Poa p 9Poa p 12Poa p 7

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) induces immune tolerance by shifting the immune response from Th2 to Th1/Treg, increasing allergen-specific IgG4 levels, and reducing IgE-mediated mast cell degranulation.