Immunoblotting Analysis of Fruit Proteins in Mexican Pediatric Patients Suggests the Existence of New Allergens.

BACKGROUND: Food allergies are chronic diseases that compromise quality of life and can be potentially fatal due to anaphylaxis. The WHO estimates a 1-11% global prevalence, which has been increasing in recent years. They are considered, along with obesity, to be the two noninfectious pandemics. The WHO databases (WHO/IUIS) contain 403 food allergens, most of which have been reported from North America (Canada and the USA), Europe, and Asia, while reports of allergens from Latin America are scarce. Allergies have population and geographical specificities; therefore, identifying the main clinically relevant food allergens and potential new, undescribed components affecting Latin America is essential. This work aims to contribute to this field. METHODS: we gathered data from 16 allergic Mexican pediatric patients to fruits from the Rosaceae (pear and peach) and Musaceae (banana) families, as well as an allergic adult to Lauraceae (avocado). These fruits are prevalent allergens in Latin America. RESULTS: the data suggest that patients reacted to 20 different allergenic proteins reported in different allergen databases. Furthermore, we identified 16 previously unreported immunoreactive proteins, suggesting their potential role as new allergens. CONCLUSION: this preliminary work is particularly relevant, as it can influence the specific diagnosis of allergens most frequently affecting the pediatric population.