Identification of dander-specific and serum-specific allergens in cat dandruff extract.

Cat dandruff extract was characterized by crossed immunoelectrophoresis (CIE) and crossed radioimmunoelectrophoresis (CRIE) using sera from 27 cat-sensitive individuals. By applying a CIE/CRIE system with intermediate gel, the content of dander-specific and serum-specific allergens was established. Thirteen serum-related and eight dander-related antigens were identified in cat dandruff. Of these, eight antigens were visibly radiostained in CRIE. Five allergens were serum-specific and of these allergens cat albumin was the most important (intermediate allergen). Three allergens were dander-specific and of these three only cat allergen I fulfilled the criteria for a major allergen.