Pollen allergen Phl p 6 (Phl p 6)

Phl p 6 is a major protein allergen derived from the pollen of Phleum pratense, commonly known as Timothy grass. It is a small, highly alpha-helical protein of approximately 11-12 kDa that exhibits high stability and significant IgE-binding capacity in grass pollen-allergic individuals (UniProt: P43215). Phl p 6 is frequently used in the diagnosis and treatment of seasonal allergies, as it is one of the primary molecules responsible for triggering allergic rhinitis and asthma during the grass pollination season (PMID: 9812920). In a therapeutic context, Phl p 6 is a critical component of allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) formulations, such as sublingual tablets (e.g., Grazax) and subcutaneous injections. These treatments aim to desensitize the patient's immune system by gradual exposure to the allergen, promoting the development of regulatory T cells and protective IgG4 antibodies. This modulation reduces the clinical symptoms associated with subsequent natural exposure to grass pollen (PMID: 29053916). Monitoring Phl p 6-specific IgE and IgG4 levels is essential for assessing patient sensitivity and the efficacy of the immunotherapy (PMID: 17456214).

Other names

Phl p VITimothy grass allergen Phl p 6Allergen Phl p 611 kDa pollen allergen

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) utilizes Phl p 6 as part of a pollen extract to induce immunological tolerance. This process involves shifting the immune response from a Th2-mediated (pro-allergic) profile to a Th1/Treg-mediated profile, leading to the production of blocking IgG4 antibodies and the suppression of IgE-mediated mast cell degranulation (PMID: 21673010, PMID: 15334974).