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Identification of Alpha-Gal glycolipids in saliva of Lone-Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum)

  • Surendra Raj Sharma
  • , Sabir Hussain
  • , Shailesh K. Choudhary
  • , Scott P. Commins
  • , Shahid Karim*
  • *Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

85 Downloads (CityUHK Scholars)

Abstract

Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) is a delayed allergic reaction triggered by IgE antibodies targeting galactose-α-1,3-galactose (α-gal), prevalent in red meat. Its global significance has increased, with over 450,000 estimated cases in the United States alone. AGS is linked to tick bites, causing sensitization and elevated α-gal specific IgE levels. However, the precise mechanisms and tick intrinsic factors contributing to AGS development post-tick bites remain unclear. This study aims to characterize the alpha-gal conjugated lipid antigens in Amblyomma americanum (Am. americanum) salivary glands and saliva. Nanospray ionization mass spectrometry (NSI-MS) analysis revealed the identification of α-gal bound lipid antigens in Am. americanum saliva. Additionally, the activation of basophils by extracted alpha-gal bound lipids and proteins provides evidence of their antigenic capabilities. © 2024 The Author(s)
Original languageEnglish
Article number102384
JournalTicks and Tick-borne Diseases
Volume15
Issue number6
Online published24 Jul 2024
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2024

Research Keywords

  • Alpha-gal bound lipid
  • Alpha-Gal Syndrome
  • Amblyomma americanum
  • Basophil activation test
  • Food allergy
  • IgE
  • Tick bites

Publisher's Copyright Statement

  • This full text is made available under CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/

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