Molecular Characterization of Brassica Pollen Allergen

Molecular Characterization of Brassica Pollen Allergen

Allergy to Brassica pollen has been reported in some countries. We have cloned a cDNA encoding a Brassica pollen allergen, Bra r 1. Bra r 1 belongs to a new family of $Ca^{2+}$-binding proteins, characterized by the presence of two EF-hand calcium-binding domains. Bra r 1 was detected in the tapetum, microspores, pollen coat and pollen tubes, indicating Bra r 1 is involved in pollen pistil interaction and pollen tube growth. We have engineered the hypoallergenic mutants of Bra r 1 for immunotherapy. Here we describe the review of molecular characterization of Bra r 1.