Proteomic Analysis of Lupin Seed Proteins To Identify Conglutin β as an Allergen, Lup an 1

Abstract

Lupin products may be valuable as human foods because of their high protein content and potential anticholesterolemic properties. However, a small percentage of the population is allergic to lupin. In this study, we use in vitro IgE binding and mass spectrometry to identify conglutin β, a major storage protein, as an allergen in seeds of Lupinus angustifolius and Lupinus albus. Purification of conglutin β from L. angustifolius flour confirmed that serum IgE binds to this protein. Where IgE in sera recognized lupin proteins on Western blots, it recognized conglutin β, suggesting this protein is a major allergen for lupin. The L. angustifolius conglutin β allergen has been designated Lup an 1 by the International Union of Immunological Societies (IUIS) allergen nomenclature subcommittee