Abstract: Purpose of review xD;Seafood plays an important role in human nutrition worldwide, sustained by international trade of a variety of new seafood products. Increased production and consumption have resulted in more frequent reports of adverse reactions, highlighting the need for more specific diagnosis and treatment of seafood allergy. This review discusses recent literature in this field. xD;Recent findings xD;The most recent prevalence data from Asia highlight seafood as a significant sensitizer in up to 40% of children and 33% of adults. Furthermore, the demonstration of species-specific sensitization to salt-water and fresh-water prawns and processed prawn extract should improve diagnosis. Studies on humans demonstrated for the first time that biologically active fish allergens can be detected in serum samples as early as 10 min after ingestion. These studies highlight that minute amounts of ingested seafood allergens can quickly trigger allergic symptoms; also, inhaled airborne allergens seem to induce sensitization and reactions. In the past 2 years, over 10 additional seafood allergens have been characterized. Allergen-specific detection assays in food products are available for crustacean tropomyosin; however, many specific mollusk and some fish allergens are not readily identified. xD;Summary xD;Although cross-reactivity between crustacean and mollusks as well as mites is demonstrated, the often poor correlation of IgE reactivity and clinical symptoms calls for more detailed investigations. The recent development of hypoallergenic parvalbumin from carp could form the basis for safer vaccination products for treatment of fish allergy. Molecular characterization of more universal marker allergens for the three major seafood groups will improve current component-resolved clinical diagnosis and have a significant impact on the management of allergic patients, on food labeling and on future immunotherapy for seafood allergy.
Abstract: Background: Exposure to antigens of the fish parasite Anisakis is associated with the development of protein contact dermatitis in seafood-processing workers. Understanding the basic mechanisms controlling allergic sensitization through the skin is critical for designing therapies that will prevent the progression of allergic disease. Objective: To investigate the roles of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13 and the IL-4Ralpha in both local skin pathology and systemic sensitization following epicutaneous exposure to Anisakis proteins. Methods: BALB/c wild-type (WT) mice and mice deficient in IL-4, IL-13 or IL-4 and IL-13, as well as mice with cell-specific impairment of IL-4Ralpha expression, were sensitized to Anisakis antigen by repeated epicutaneous application of Anisakis extract. Following this sensitization, skin pathology was recorded and systemic responses were investigated. Intravenous challenge with Anisakis extract was performed to test for the development of biologically relevant systemic sensitization. Results: In WT mice, epicutaneous sensitization with Anisakis larval antigens induced localized inflammation, epidermal hyperplasia, production of T(H)2 cytokines, antigen-specific IgE and IgG1. Intravenous challenge of sensitized mice resulted in anaphylactic shock. Interestingly, IL-13 deficient mice failed to develop epidermal hyperplasia and inflammation, whilst anaphylaxis was reduced only in strains deficient either in IL-4 only, or deficient in IL-4 and IL-13 concurrently, as well as in mice deficient in IL-4Ralpha or with impaired IL-4Ralpha expression on CD4(+) T cells. Conclusions: Interleukin-13 plays a central role in protein contact dermatitis associated with repeated epicutaneous exposure to Anisakis extract, whereas IL-4 drives systemic sensitization and resultant anaphylactic shock.
Notes: Journal article xD;Allergy xD;Allergy. 2009 Feb 18.
Abstract: Antarctic krill, Euphausia superba, is very susceptible to harmful solar radiation because of its unique genetic setup. Exposure occurs in spring to autumn during vertical diel migration and during occasional daytime surface-swarming. We have investigated colour change in Antarctic krill, Euphausia superba, during summer and winter in the Lazarev Sea in response to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). Short-term physiological colour change and long-term (seasonal) morphological colour change are present. Both are facilitated by a single type of monochromatic red chromatophore, i.e. erythrophores, of 20-450 mu m diameter. Superficial erythrophores cover large dorsal areas, especially above vital organs (brain, sinus glands), additional 'profound' erythrophores cover internal organs (heart, gut, nerve cords). Short-term change in light regime causes rapid physiological colour change along dense bundles of microtubules: pigment disperses into chromorhizae upon exposure to PAR and UVA and to a lesser extent to UVB. Darkness leads to aggregation of pigment in the centre and hence blanching. There is no circadian rhythm in the dispersal state of erythrophores present in winter. Physiological colour change in adult krill is two to three times more rapid in summer than in winter. Furthermore, seasonal changes in light regime also result in a profound morphological colour change: in summer animals, abdominal astaxanthin concentration is 450% and erythrophore count is 250-480% higher than in winter krill. We conclude from our results, that pigmentation of E. superba serves in the protection from harmful solar radiation and is adapted to the varying diel and seasonal light conditions.
Notes: Auerswald, Lutz Freier, Ulrich Lopata, Andreas Meyer, Bettina
Abstract: Background Fish processing is a common economic activity ill Southern Africa. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and host determinants of allergic symptoms, allergic sensitization, bronchial hyper-responsiveness and asthma among workers processing saltwater fish. xD;Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 594 currently employed workers ill two processing plants involved in pilchard canning and fishmeal processing. A modified European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) questionnaire was used. Skin prick tests (SPT) used extracts of common airborne allergens, fresh fish (pilchard, anchovy, maasbanker, mackerel, red eye) and fishmeal. Spirometry and methacholine challenge tests (MCTs; tidal breathing method) used ATS guidelines. xD;Results Work-related ocular-nasal symptoms (26%) were more common than asthma symptoms (16%). The prevalence atopy was 36%, while 7% were sensitized to fish species and 26% had NSBH (PC20 <= 8 mg/ml or >= 12% increase in FEV1 post-bronchodilator). The prevalence of probable occupational asthma was 1.8% and fish allergic rhino-conjunctivitis 2.6%. Women were more likely to report work-related asthma symptoms (OR = 1.94) and have NSBH (OR = 3.09), while men were more likely to be sensitized to fish (OR = 2.06) and have airway obstruction (OR = 4.17). Atopy (OR = 3.16) and current smoking (OR = 2.37), bill not habitual seafood consumption were associated with sensitization to fish. xD;Conclusions Based on comparison with previous published studies, the prevalence of occupational asthma to salt water fish is lower than due to shellfish. The gendered distribution of work and exposures in fish processing operations together with atopy and cigarette smoking are, important determinants of occupational allergy and asthma. Ani. J. Ind. Med. 51:899910, 2008. (C) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Abstract: Background: Recent studies have reported an increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms among farm workers. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors associated with spider mite allergy among table grape farm workers. xD;Methods: A cross-sectional study of 207 workers in table grape farms was conducted. Skin prick tests used extracts of 8 common aeroallergens, grape mould ( Botrytis cinerea) and Tetranychus urticae. Specific IgE to T. urticae was quantified using ImmunoCAP (Phadia). Erythrocyte cholinesterase levels were determined using the Test-mate ChE Cholinesterase Test System (model 460). xD;Results: The average duration of employment of workers was 10 years and 12% were pesticide crop sprayers. Work-related wheeze (26%), ocular-nasal (24%) and urticaria/skin symptoms (14%) were more prevalent in the orchards. The prevalence of sensitization ( skin prick test) was highest to T. urticae (22%) followed by house dust mite (16%), with 25% being atopic. The prevalence of allergy to T. urticae ( skin reactivity and work-related symptoms) was 9.5%, with respiratory allergy (6%) more common than skin allergy (3%). Work-related ocular-nasal (OR = 4.9) and skin (OR = 3.7) symptoms were more commonly reported by pesticide crop sprayers. Workers with T. urticae - allergic rhino-conjunctivitis and probable asthma were more likely to be atopic, spray pesticides and have low (< 30 U/g hemoglobin) erythrocyte cholinesterase levels. xD;Conclusions: This study demonstrated that spider mite, T. urticae, is an important outdoor allergen among table grape farm workers. The increased risk of spider mite allergy appears to be related to high pesticide exposure among crop sprayers. Copyright (c) 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.
Abstract: IL-4R alpha-mediated STAT6 activation serves an essential role in various animal models of allergy and asthma at both the. sensitization and effector phases. IL-4 and IL-13 signaling via the IL-4R alpha chain exacerbates murine anaphylaxis, but the cell-specific requirements for IL-4Ra expression are unclear. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the mechanisms of systemic anaphylaxis to OVA in gene-targeted mice with a deletion of the IL-4R alpha chain in the macrophage/neutrophil or CD4(+) T lymphocyte population. Results demonstrated that anaphylaxis in this model was entirely dependent upon the Fc gamma RII/III and was associated with mast cell degranulation. Expression of the IL-4R alpha on CD4(+) T cells, but not macrophages or neutrophils, was critical for severe anaphylaxis, characterized by diarrhea, hypothermia, and death. Ab depletion experiments demonstrated that IFN-gamma protected against mortality and severe intestinal pathology despite the presence of Ag and specific Ab. This protection was associated with reduced levels of mast cell protease, a marker of mast cell degranulation, suggesting that IFN-gamma may inhibit mast cell degranulation in vivo. These data suggest that it may be possible to limit the severity of anaphylaxis using rational therapies designed to increase numbers of IFN-gamma-producing cells by targeting IL-4R alpha signaling in CD4(+) T lymphocytes.
Abstract: Background: Occupational allergy to latex is generally reported from occupational groups such as health care workers; however, few reports derive from other occupational settings. Methods: Two male subjects working as loom tuners in a textile manufacturing plant developed severe allergic reactions during the cutting and weaving of elastic bands, initially not suspected to contain latex constituents. Clinical evaluation and lung function tests were supplemented by skin prick testing, specific IgE evaluation and basophil activation assays with extracted elastic bands. Results: Both workers presented with rhinitis, episodes of tight chest and itchy eyes. Initial spirometry was normal with no significant reversibility; however, a histamine challenge test was positive in one worker. Skin prick testing to a battery of common inhalant allergens was negative; however, raised IgE levels were detected to latex using ImmunoCAP. On further testing, the specific IgE response was directed mainly to the major latex allergens rHev b 5, rHev b 6.01, rHev b 6.02 and nHev b 13. Basophils of the two workers, but not the unaffected control subjects, were strongly activated by extracts of the elastic and the cutting dust material. Conclusions: Workers are at high risk of becoming sensitised to latex allergens when exposed to excessive dust produced by loom tuning machines. Latex sensitisation should therefore be considered in workers developing unexplained work-related allergic reactions ( including asthma) associated with unlabelled materials in the textile industry. Copyright (c) 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.
Abstract: Histamine levels were determined in fresh and processed seafood from a representative range of 10 outlets after several incidents of scombroid seafood poisoning occurred. Species included seventeen fresh and processed scombroid- and non-scombroid fish, marine mollusks and crustaceans. Histamine levels in fresh seafood were generally low (0-9 ppm) with the exception of one sample of snoek (scombroid fish; > 50 ppm) and one sample of yellowtail (non-scombroid fish; > 50 ppm). Both species are rich in free histidine (1.5-5.3 ppb), a precursor of histamine. Processed seafood had, in general, low histamine concentrations (0-3 ppm) with the exception of fish meal (76 ppm), salted herring (47 ppm), one sample of smoked snoek (> 50 ppm) and dried tuna (8000 ppm). In total, 5 of 80 examined samples (6%) contained histamine concentrations above the legal limit of 50 ppm. Experimental formation of histamine was demonstrated to be strongly temperature- and time-dependent. Samples were not contaminated with Vibrio spp., Pseudomonas spp., Klebsiellas spp. or Enterobacteria. xD;The data confirm that Thyrsites atun (snoek) and Seriola lalandi (yellowtail) are the primary fish species in South Africa posing a risk for consumers, as was documented in several scombrotoxisin outbreaks. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Abstract: Background: Several case reports show allergy and anaphylactic reactions to the fish parasite Anisakis in the domestic and occupational setting. Further research is needed on the prevalence and mechanisms of disease. xD;Objective: To determine the prevalence of Anisakis sensitization and related symptoms among workers in 2 fish-processing factories, and to use gene-deficient mice to determine the working mechanisms of Anisakis allergy. xD;Methods: A modified version of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey was used to interview 578 South African fish-processing workers. Sensitization to Anisakis, seafood, and common aeroallergens was determined by skin prick test. Lung function was measured by spirometry and methacholine challenge. Serum eicosapentaenoic acid levels were used as an index of seafood consumption. Sensitized wildtype, IL-4, or IL-4 receptor alpha-deficient mice were challenged orally with Anisakis extract. Allergic reactions, lung pathology, antibodies, cytokines, mast cell proteases, and histamine were evaluated. xD;Results: The prevalence of sensitization to Anisakis was higher than the prevalence of sensitization to fish (8% vs 6%). Anisakis-specific IgE reactivity was associated with bronchial hyperreactivity and dermatitis, and significantly increased with fish consumption. In mice, Anisakis infective larvae (1,3) induced a striking T(H)2/type 2 response. Food-allergic-type reactions induced by oral challenge with Anisakis extract were absent in IL-4 receptor a knockout mice. xD;Conclusion: Anisakis sensitization in fish-processing workers is associated with allergic symptoms and correlates with high levels of fish consumption. Anisakis proteins induce allergic reactions in sensitized mice by IL-4/IL-13-mediated mechanisms. Clinical implications: Anisakis allergy should be considered in fish-processing workers with allergic symptoms.
Abstract: Cytochrome P4501A (CYP1A) monoxygenase. vitellogenin (Vtg) and Zona radiata proteins (Zrp) are, frequently used as biomarkers of fish exposure to organic contaminants. In this work. swordfish liver sections obtained from the Mediterranean Sea, the South African coasts (South Atlantic and South Western Indian Oceans) and the Central North Pacific Ocean were immunostained with antisera against CYP1A. Zrp, and Vtg. CYP1A induction was found in hepatocytes, epithelium of the biliary ductus and the endothelium of large blood vessels of fish from the Mediterranean Sea and South African waters. but not front the Pacific Ocean. Zrp and Vtg were immunolocalized in hepatocytes of male swordfish from the Mediterranean Sea and front South African waters. Plasma Dot-Blot analysis, performed in Mediterranean and Pacific specimens. revealed the presence of Zrp and Vtg in males front Mediterranean but not front Pacific. These results confirm previous findings about the potential exposure of Mediterranean swordfish to endocrine, disrupting chemicals and raise questions concerning the. possible presence of xenobiotic contaminants off the Southern coasts of South Africa in both the South Atlantic and South Western Indian Oceans. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Abstract: Background: Aerosolization of seafood and subsequent inhalation, during processing is a potential high-risk activity for allergic respiratory disease. xD;Objectives: To quantify total thoracic particulate, protein concentration and specific fish (pilchard, anchovy) antigen concentrations in fish processing plants; to determine the correlation between these exposure metrics; and to identify the major determinants of variability and the optimal grouping strategies for establishing dose-response relationships for fish antigen exposures. xD;Methods: Exposure assessments were conducted on randomly selected individuals within each of the identified 'exposure groups' (EGs) in two fish processing factories. Personal time-integrated sampling was conducted with a thoracic fraction sampler and analysed for particulate mass, total protein and specific fish antigens. Exposure metrics were developed on the basis of individually measured exposures and average levels of these personal samples within EGs. The main components of the exposure variability were determined using ANOVA techniques. xD;Results: A total of 198 full-shift personal aerosol samples were collected and analysed. Twenty-two percent of the samples were below the limit of detection (LOD) for pilchard and 23% for anchovy assays. Personal sampling revealed wide variations across EGs in arithmetic mean concentrations of thoracic particulate 0.61 mg m(-3) (range: LOD-11.3), total protein 0.89 mu g m(-3) (LOD-11.5), pilchard antigen 150 ng m(-3) (LOD-15 973) and anchovy antigen 552 ng m(-3) (LOD-75 748) levels. The fishmeal loading and bagging sections of both plants showed consistently high thoracic particulate mass (0.811-2.714 mg m(-3)), total protein (0.185-1.855 mu g m(-3)), pilchard antigen (538-3288 ng m(-3)) and anchovy antigen (1708-15 431 ng m(-3)). The a priori strategy that grouped workers according to EGs produced reasonably satisfactory summary exposure metric statistics. An alternative grouping strategy based on department revealed comparable elasticity (exposure contrast). While the correlation between the log-transformed thoracic particulate mass and fish antigen concentrations were generally modest (Pearson's r = 0.32-0.35, P < 0.001), a high correlation was found between pilchard and anchovy antigen concentrations (Pearson's r = 0.71, P < 0.001). Models using factory and department grouping strategies accounted for a significant portion of the variability (adjusted r(2) = 0.18, P = 0.043) in pilchard antigen levels. Grouping strategies using a combination of factory and department yielded the highest degree of elasticity for thoracic particulate (0.38) and pilchard antigen (0.42) levels. xD;Conclusions: Workers involved in bony fish processing are at risk of inhaling aerosols containing pilchard and anchovy fish antigens. Antigen exposures are highest during fishmeal production and bagging. Grouping strategies based on department and factory may provide a more efficient approach than a priori classification of EGs for evaluating fish antigen exposures.
Abstract: In this report we describe a 9-month-old boy with severe persistent asthma and documented cow's milk allergy ( presented with eczema and severe systemic reactions) who had an anaphylactic reaction to a soy formula contaminated with cow's milk protein. Quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis revealed trace quantities of beta-lactoglobulin in the offending soy formula as well as the dry powder. The patient did not demonstrate clinical reactivity to soy protein ( negative challenge, tolerated pure soy formula well). Cross-contamination of the offending soy formula was presumed to have occurred during food manufacturing. This case demonstrates that trace quantities of cow's milk protein can elicit severe systemic reactions in highly milk-allergic individuals. This infant ingested the equivalent of 0.4 mL of cow's milk from the soy formula as documented by an immunoassay for beta-lactoglobulin. This highlights the ease with which cross-contamination can occur during food processing and reinforces the need for better quality control.
Abstract: Background: Recent reports of fatal asthma cases associated with swarms of locusts affecting African countries have highlighted the importance of this insect in causing asthma morbidity and mortality. However, only limited information is available about the allergic health outcomes such as asthma and its determinants in exposed individuals. In this study, workers exposed to the African migratory locust Locusta migratoria were evaluated for allergic health outcomes as well as the nature of the offending allergens. xD;Methods: Ten scientists and technicians exposed to locusts in a laboratory were investigated for locust-related allergy using questionnaires and immunological tests. The presence of allergy was determined by quantification of specific IgE and IgG to L. migratoria using the UniCAP(R) system and via skin-prick testing (SPT). The allergens were characterized by Western blot and ImmunoCAP inhibition assays. xD;Results: Six of the 10 workers experienced symptoms ranging from urticaria and rhinoconjuctivitis to asthma. Seven individuals demonstrated sensitivity on SPT and five had specific IgE antibodies to L. migratoria. Significant cross-reactivity was demonstrated for allergens in the locust faeces, body and wings but not to cockroach allergens. Novel allergens with molecular weights of approximately 70 kDa were identified in locust wings, which are distinctly different from other known allergen sources from locusts. xD;Conclusion: Exposure to L. migratoria allergens is a potential sensitizer in exposed individuals. Raised levels of locust-specific IgE can be readily quantified. The wings of this insect species have been identified as a novel allergen source.
Abstract: Background: Aerosolization of fish proteins during seafood processing has been identified as a potential route for allergic sensitization and occupational asthma among workers involved in high-risk activities. The aim of this study was to develop immunological assays for the quantification of aerosolized fish antigens in a fish-processing factory. Methods: Polyclonal antibodies to the main fish species processed in the factory (anchovy and pilchard) were generated in rabbits and compared by ELISA inhibition assay and immunoblotting. These antisera were utilized to develop ELISA assays for the detection of fish antigens. The ELISA inhibition assays were evaluated by analyzing environmental air samples collected from three areas in a fish-processing factory: pilchard canning, fish meal production and lobster processing. Results: By immunoblotting, the rabbit polyclonal antibodies demonstrated IgG antibody binding patterns comparable with IgE antibodies of fish-sensitized patients, particularly in regard to the major fish allergens parvalbumins. The sensitivity of the fish-specific ELISA assays developed was 0.5 mu g/ml. The ELISA inhibition assays were able to differentiate between the two different fish species of interest but did not recognize a crustacean species. Notable differences in exposure levels to canned pilchard and anchovy antigens were demonstrated in the three different working areas of the factory, with assays having a detection limit as low as 105 ng/m(3). Conclusion: These ELISA-based assays are sensitive and specific to quantify differential exposure levels to fish antigens produced during fish processing, making it possible to investigate exposure-disease response relationships among workers in this industry. Copyright (C) 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel.
Abstract: Food allergy is defined as an adverse immunologic reaction to allergens present in food and is associated with symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal discomfort to anaphylactic shock and death. The increase in prevalence and potential fatality of disease has led to increased efforts to find effective therapies and prophylaxis. While specific immunotherapy (SIT) is effective in desensitization against inhalant allergens, it is unadvised against food allergy because of the high risk of adverse side effects. A review of the recent literature shows that various approaches have been taken to develop safer and more effective SIT regimens. Here we discuss the use of recombinant allergens, peptides, DNA vaccines, immunostimulatory DNA sequences, and other bacterial products in SIT. In addition, we review nonspecific therapies such as anti-IgE administration and cytokine therapy as well as natural therapies such as probiotics and Chinese herbal medications. In conclusion, anti-IgE treatment and SIT using hypoallergenic recombinant allergens in combination with Th1-inducing adjuvants appear the most promising approaches. New initiatives to increase our understanding of the pathophysiology and immunologic mechanisms of food allergy along with the molecular characterization of food allergens should pave the way towards safer and more effective ways of combating this debilitating and potentially life-threatening disease.
Notes: Bdu43 xD;Times Cited:1 xD;Cited References Count:154 xD;Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
Abstract: Background: Exposure to organic dust produced by birds often gives rise to an immune response, e. g. IgG antibodies, but intense exposure can lead to high concentrations of IgG antibodies and the development of allergic alveolitis, often known as 'bird fancier's lung'. The aim of this study was to establish the distribution of bird-specific IgG antibodies in exposed and nonexposed individuals and compare a nonquantitative and quantitative method in evaluating raised levels of IgG antibodies. Methods: Sera were collected in Sweden and South Africa and levels of IgG antibodies specific to pigeon, budgerigar and parrot antigens were quantified using the UniCAP system. Results were compared to the precipitation in gel assay. The IgG antibody values of symptomatic patients without precipitating antibodies (non-PP group; n = 51) and patients with precipitating antibodies (PP group; n = 34) were analyzed and compared to nonexposed asymptomatic blood donors (BD group; n = 73) and environmentally exposed pigeon breeders (n = 11). Results: The IgG antibody response of the analyzed groups in Sweden and South Africa did not vary significantly from each other. IgG antibody responses were the strongest to pigeon antigens with clear increased IgG antibody levels in the PP group [geometric mean (GM) 603 mg/l] compared to the non-PP (GM 6.9 mg/l) and BD group (GM 5.0 mg/l). Threshold values, calculated as the GM value from the BD group plus 3 standard deviations (99% confidence interval), were 9.8, 10.8 and 10.0 mg/l for pigeons, budgerigars and parrots, respectively. Comparison of the two methods resulted in a good concordance with a level of agreement of 94.1% (kappa statistic = 0.83). Conclusions: The UniCAP system for the detection of bird-specific IgG antibodies is a highly reproducible, generally available, quantitative method for routine diagnostic testing and monitoring of exposed subjects with a very high level of agreement to the precipitating gel assay. Copyright (C) 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel.
Abstract: Species identification based on biochemical and molecular techniques has a broad range of applications. These include compliance enforcement, the management and conservation of marine organisms, and commercial quality control. Abalone poaching worldwide and illegal trade in abalone products have increased mainly because of the attractive prices obtained and caused a sharp decline in stocks. Alleged poachers have been acquitted because of lack of evidence to correctly identify species. Therefore, a robust method is required that would identify tissue of abalone origin to species level. The aim of this study was to develop immunologic techniques, using monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies, to identify 10 different abalone species and subspecies from South Africa, the United States, Australia, and Japan. The combination of 3 developed monoclonal antibodies to South African abalone (Haliotis midae) enabled differentiation between most of the 10 species including the subspecies H. diversicolor supertexta and H. diversicolor diversicolor. In a novel approach, using antibodies of patients with allergy to abalone, the differentiation of additional subspecies, H. discus discus and H. discus hannai, was possible. A field-based immunoassay was developed to identify confiscated tissue of abalone origin.
Abstract: Background-Recent years have seen increased levels of production and consumption of seafood, leading to more frequent reporting of allergic reactions in occupational and domestic settings. This review focuses on occupational allergy in the fishing and seafood processing industry. xD;Review-Workers involved in either manual or automated processing of crabs' prawns, mussels, fish, and fishmeal production are commonly exposed to various constituents of seafood. Aerosolisation of seafood and cooking fluid during processing are potential occupational situations that could result in sensitisation through inhalation. There is great variability of aerosol exposure within and among various jobs with reported allergen concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 5.061(mug/m(3)). Occupational dermal exposure occurs as a result of unprotected handling of seafood and its byproducts. Occupational allergies have been reported in workers exposed to arthropods (crustaceans), molluscs, pisces (bony fish) and other agents derived from seafood. The prevalence of occupational asthma ranges from 7% to 36%, and for occupational protein contact dermatitis, from 3% to 11%. These health outcomes are mainly due to high molecular weight proteins in seafood causing an IgE mediated response. Cross reactivity between various species within a major seafood grouping also occurs. Limited evidence from dose-response relations indicate that development of symptoms is related to duration or intensity of exposure. The evidence for atopy as a risk factor for occupational sensitisation and asthma is supportive, whereas evidence for cigarette smoking is limited. Disruption of the intact skin barrier seems to be an important added risk factor for occupational protein contact dermatitis. xD;Conclusion-The range of allergic disease associated with occupational exposure to crab is well characterised, whereas for other seafood agents the evidence is somewhat limited. There is a need for further epidemiological studies to better characterise this risk. More detailed characterisation of specific protein antigens in aerosols and associated establishment of dose-response relations for acute and chronic exposure to seafood; the respective roles of skin contact and inhalational exposure in allergic sensitisation and cross reactivity; and the contribution of host associated factors in the development of occupational seafood allergies are important areas for future research.
Abstract: Declines in rock-lobster (Jasus lalandii) growth have prompted a re-assessment of their diet, for which we employed an immunological approach (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, ELISA). Antisera were raised against 26 prey species, and their specificity was determined using ELISA. Antibody-binding was compared using Western blots. The antisera showed high specificity to undigested prey with cross-reactions among antisera being reduced to < 4%. However, crossreactivity increased to 49% when tested against digested prey, with some antisera even failing to recognise homologous prey. Sodium dodecylsulphate (SDS) gel electrophoresis demonstrated that excess rock-lobster digestive enzymes prevented the identification of digested prey by ELISA. However, "inhibition ELISA" (modified ELISA) did demonstrate species-specific proteins in the digested extracts and could be used to identify digested prey accurately. Nevertheless, the problem of enzyme interference has to be solved before large-scale screening of rock-lobster diets by ELISA is feasible.
Abstract: The work practices, occupational health services and allergic health problems among workplaces which process seafood in Western Cape province of South Africa were examined. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 68 workplaces that were sent a self-administered postal survey questionnaire. Workplaces reporting a high prevalence of work-related symptoms associated with seafood exposure were also inspected. Forty-one (60%) workplaces responded to the questionnaire, The workforce consisted mainly of women (62%) and 31% were seasonal workers. Common seafoods processed were bony fish (76%) and rock lobster (34%). Major work processes involved freezing (71%), cutting (63%) and degutting (58%). Only 45% of workplaces provided an on-site occupational health service and 58% of workplaces conducted medical surveillance. Positive trends were observed between workplace size and activities such as occupational health service provision (P = 0.002), medical surveillance programmes (P = 0.055) and reporting work-related symptoms (P = 0.016). None of the workplaces had industrial hygiene surveillance programmes to evaluate the effects of exposure to seafood. Common work-related symptoms included skin rashes (78%), asthma (7%) and other non-specific allergies (15%). The annual prevalence of work-related skin symptoms reported per workplace was substantially higher for skin (0 - 100%) than for asthmatic (0 -5%) symptoms. The relatively low prevalence of employer-reported asthmatic symptoms, when compared to epidemiological studies using direct investigator assessment of individual health status, suggests likely under-detection. This can be attributed to under-provision and under-development of occupational health surveillance programmes in workplaces with less than 200 workers. This is compounded further by the lack of specific statutory guidelines for the evaluation and control of bio-aerosols in South African workplaces.
Abstract: Background: There is a paucity of published data on the clinical presentation and the nature of the allergens involved in hypersensitivity to mollusks. This study reports the clinical and immunologic findings in 38 patients with reported immediate and delayed adverse reactions to abalone (Haliotis midae, Class Gastropoda). Methods: Patients were recruited as part of a South African seafood allergy survey, Allergic symptoms were assessed by a self-administered questionnaire, A total of 38 patients with abalone sensitivity were recruited, Specific IgE responses to abalone and other mollusks were studied by using RAST and inhibition ELISAs, Skin prick tests and lymphocyte proliferation assays mere also performed on several of the subjects, Allergenic components of Haliotis midae were identified with Western blotting. Results: Twenty five of the 38 patients in the study were first seen with immediate symptoms, and 13 had delayed reactions. Seventeen of the sera tested were RAST positive. Skin prick tests responses with abalone extract mere positive in all subjects with positive RAST responses (n = 8) and in 6 of 13 subjects with negative RAST responses. Five of the subjects with positive RAST responses had positive results on Western blotting and demonstrated binding to two major allergens with molecular weights of 38 and 49 kd. The 49 kd IgE-binding protein has been designated as Hal-m-1. Conclusions: Abalone allergens are heat-stable proteins,vith molecular weights of 38 and 49 kd, later designated as Hal-m-1 according to International Union of Immunological Societies allergen nomenclature regulation. Our studies indicate a clear clinical and immunologic heterogeneity in patients reactive to abalone.
Abstract: Background: There is a paucity of published data on the clinical presentation and the nature of the allergens involved in hypersensitivity to mollusks. This study reports the clinical and immunologic findings in 38 patients with reported immediate and delayed adverse reactions to abalone (Haliotis midae, Class Gastropoda). xD;Methods: Patients were recruited as part of a South African seafood allergy survey, Allergic symptoms were assessed by a self-administered questionnaire, A total of 38 patients with abalone sensitivity were recruited, Specific IgE responses to abalone and other mollusks were studied by using RAST and inhibition ELISAs, Skin prick tests and lymphocyte proliferation assays mere also performed on several of the subjects, Allergenic components of Haliotis midae were identified with Western blotting. xD;Results: Twenty five of the 38 patients in the study were first seen with immediate symptoms, and 13 had delayed reactions. Seventeen of the sera tested were RAST positive. Skin prick tests responses with abalone extract mere positive in all subjects with positive RAST responses (n = 8) and in 6 of 13 subjects with negative RAST responses. Five of the subjects with positive RAST responses had positive results on Western blotting and demonstrated binding to two major allergens with molecular weights of 38 and 49 kd. The 49 kd IgE-binding protein has been designated as Hal-m-1. xD;Conclusions: Abalone allergens are heat-stable proteins,vith molecular weights of 38 and 49 kd, later designated as Hal-m-1 according to International Union of Immunological Societies allergen nomenclature regulation. Our studies indicate a clear clinical and immunologic heterogeneity in patients reactive to abalone.
Abstract: Objective. The aim of this study was to assess the spectrum of allergy to South African bony fish (Class Teleosti), crustaceans and molluscs and to confirm or refute suspected allergy, specifically to bony fish, by double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge (DBPCFC). xD;Design. Patients were recruited by means of a seafood allergy questionnaire. Subjects with reported allergy to hake, yellowtail, salmon and mackerel were investigated by means of skin-prick tests, RASTs and Western blot analysis. For those subjects with test results that were either all negative or equivocal, a definitive diagnosis of clinical sensitivity was made on the basis of DBPCFC. xD;Setting. Volunteer population-based cohort in the Western Gape. xD;Participants. 105 volunteer subjects with suspected fish allergy were recruited by advertising in the local press. xD;Main outcome. Species-specific bony fish allergy was confirmed or refuted by DBPCFC. xD;Results. The four most common seafood species reported to cause adverse reactions were prawns (46.7%), crayfish (43.8%), abalone (35.2%) and black mussels (33.3%). The four most common bony fish species to cause reactions were hake (24.8%), yellowtail (21.9%), salmon (15.2%) and mackerel (15.2%). xD;Seven DBPCFCs were performed and two open challenges. Skin-prick tests produced one false-negative result. Western blots produced one false-negative and one false-positive result. The PAST had a 100% correlation with DBPCFC. xD;Conclusions. Local bony fish represent a significant cause of clinical reactions to seafood in the Western Cape. Although skin-prick tests, RASTs and Western blotting tests assist in the documentation of an IgE responder state, confirmation of clinical sensitivity can only be made with certainty by means of DBPCFC.
Abstract: Various effects of a corpus cardiacum extract from the fruit beetle, Pachnoda sinuata, and its synthetic peptide, were analysed. Neither the corpus cardiacum extract nor the synthetic peptide exhibited myotropic or diuretic activity. The synthetic peptide, however, increased the haemolymph carbohydrate concentration in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Since the haemolymph volume is 150 mu l, injection of 20 pmol of the synthetic peptide, equalling 1.3 x 10(-7) M, was needed for a maximal response, manifested at 120-180 min. It was the disaccharide trehalose which increased after injection; it constitutes over 98% of the haemolymph's oligosaccharides during rest and after injection. Injection of synthetic peptide did not affect the haemolymph lipid concentration or the levels of proline and alanine, During flights of 15 min duration, the haemolymph trehalose concentration, as well as the level of proline, decreased substantially, whereas the level of alanine increased. Whereas the concentration of the free amino acids returned to preflight levels during a 1 h rest period after flight, trehalose levels did not reach preflight levels. These results indicate that hormonal regulation of amino acid metabolism may take place. As shown by HPLC analyses, the corpus cardiacum peptide can be released in vitro upon Ca2+-dependent depolarization, although no release in vivo has yet been demonstrated.
Abstract: Food allergy is defined as an adverse immunologic reaction to allergens present in food and is associated with symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal discomfort to anaphylactic shock and death. The increase in prevalence and potential fatality of disease has led to increased efforts to find effective therapies and prophylaxis. While specific immunotherapy (SIT) is effective in desensitization against inhalant allergens, it is unadvised against food allergy because of the high risk of adverse side effects. A review of the recent literature shows that various approaches have been taken to develop safer and more effective SIT regimens. Here we discuss the use of recombinant allergens, peptides, DNA vaccines, immunostimulatory DNA sequences, and other bacterial products in SIT. In addition, we review nonspecific therapies such as anti-IgE administration and cytokine therapy as well as natural therapies such as probiotics and Chinese herbal medications. In conclusion, anti-IgE treatment and SIT using hypoallergenic recombinant allergens in combination with Th1-inducing adjuvants appear the most promising approaches. New initiatives to increase our understanding of the pathophysiology and immunologic mechanisms of food allergy along with the molecular characterization of food allergens should pave the way towards safer and more effective ways of combating this debilitating and potentially life-threatening disease.
Abstract: Biochemical and molecular species identification techniques have a broad range of applications in the management and conservation of marine organisms. While species boundaries are not always clearly defined, phylogeneticists utilise autapomorphic characters to distinguish phylogenetic species. Genetic markers discriminate between marine taxa when traditional morphological distinctions are unclear. The applications of these techniques can be divided into four general categories. Firstly, compliance enforcement, which often depends on genetic identification techniques to enable officials to identify the species to which regulations pertain. Secondly, quality control applications, to allow for the testing of marine products to guard against fraudulent substitution with less valuable species, which is particularly pertinent since processing often obliterates identifiable features. Thirdly, a variety of applications to ecological and life-history studies and conservation management are reported. Here, the genetic identification techniques of species from cryptic life-cycle stages or of morphologically indistinct species are an indispensable tool for marine scientists, conservators and managers. Lastly, the application of genetic techniques for sourcing population origin is briefly discussed. The biochemical and molecular techniques applied to species identification all exploit phenotypic or genotypic polymorphisms that are sampled using either tertiary level protein based methods or primary level DNA based methods. In this review, examples of the applications along with the total protein, allozyme, serological, PCR and other DNA based methodologies are briefly described and some generalities with regard to their use are presented.
Abstract: Although the incidence of abalone poaching is increasing in South Africa, several alleged poachers have been acquitted in cases where the state has been unable to prove that the confiscated meat is of the local abalone, Haliotis midae. This species is illegally exported to the Far East by poaching syndicates, a practice that is undermining the legitimate industry. To solve this, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique that targets a portion of the lysin gene of several abalone species and unequivocally distinguishes between H, midae and H, spadicea (a sympatric congeneric) has been developed. The PCR primers specifically amplify approximately 1,300 bp of genomic DNA from dried, cooked, and fresh abalone tissue. A smaller fragment of 146 bp is used for canned abalone. Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) exploit interspecific polymorphisms that discriminate between these two species. The method can also be used to identify H. rubra and can easily be adapted to other abalone species under the same threat of overexploitation.
