Evidence that the castor bean allergens are the albumin storage proteins in the protein bodies of castor bean.

The well characterized castor bean (Ricinus communis L.) allergens were identified as the low molecular weight albumin storage proteins in the matrix of the protein bodies in the endosperm. The methods of identification involved molecular weight estimation, amino acid composition, stability at 100 degrees C, solubility in various solvents, gel electrophoresis, and immunological techniques. The finding explains the wide distribution of allergens in various seeds.