Detection of Bet v 1 Homologous Proteins and Plant Profilins by Indirect ELISA.

Allergies are an ever-increasing health problem in developed societies. Cross-allergies caused by panallergens are a particularly difficult issue. Proteins similar to the main birch pollen Bet v 1 allergen and profilin are some of the most common allergens. These proteins have a very conservative structure and are present in many distinct organisms. Hence, the knowledge of their natural occurrence is very important for the prevention of allergic reactions. The immunometric method is the most useful approach for determining these allergens. The requirement of reliability and simplicity is fulfilled by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In this chapter, detailed procedures are described for the determination of Bet v 1 homologous proteins and plant profilins with the use of indirect, noncompetitive ELISA.