The Role of sp. in α-Gal Sensitization: Implications for Parasitic-Induced Meat Allergy.

This study investigates the potential of sp. as a novel source of α-Gal (Galα1-3Galβ1-4GlcNAc-R) epitopes capable of inducing allergic sensitization in humans. While α-Gal is classically associated with delayed IgE-mediated hypersensitivity following tick bites, emerging evidence suggests that parasitic helminths such as sp. may also express α-Gal-containing glycoconjugates, offering an alternative sensitization pathway. Protein extracts from sp. third-stage larvae and mammalian tissues (beef, pork) were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and Western blot using a monoclonal anti-α-Gal antibody (clone M86), and α-Gal epitopes were detected by ELISA. Sera from urticaria patients, stratified by sp. sensitization status, were evaluated for anti-α-Gal IgG, IgE, and IgG4 antibodies. Inhibition assays assessed cross-reactivity. Results confirmed the presence of α-Gal epitopes on sp. proteins, with prominent bands at ~250 kDa and 65 kDa. Urticaria patients sensitized to sp. exhibited significantly elevated anti-α-Gal antibody levels compared to controls. Inhibition ELISA demonstrated substantial reduction in antibody binding with sp. extracts, indicating shared antigenic determinants with mammalian α-Gal. These findings establish sp. as a source of α-Gal-containing glycoproteins capable of eliciting specific antibody responses in humans, highlighting a potential parasitic route for α-Gal sensitization.