What is Honeybee Allergen

Honeybee allergen proteins are fascinating molecular entities that often evoke severe allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. These proteins encompass a diverse array of molecules found in honeybee venom. Among the multitude of honeybee allergen proteins, Melittin, Api m 1, Api m 2, and Api m 4 are some of the most notorious culprits. They belong to the phospholipase A2, apamin, icarapin, and antigen 5 molecular families, respectively. Understanding their structural characteristics and classification is pivotal in comprehending their role in allergies.

Honeybee Allergen Proteins: Structural Characteristics and Classification

Melittin (Api m 4): This venomous peptide stands out with its unique amphipathic structure, consisting of 26 amino acid residues. Its aggressive nature arises from its ability to form pores in cell membranes, ultimately leading to cell lysis. Melittin is classified as an antigen 5 family allergen.
Api m 1 (Phospholipase A2): Phospholipase A2 is another key allergen in honeybee venom, belonging to the phospholipase A2 family. This enzyme is primarily responsible for the breakdown of phospholipids, initiating the cascade of events leading to inflammation and allergic reactions.
Api m 2 (Apamin): Apamin, a neurotoxic peptide, is involved in blocking certain ion channels in nerve cells. Its structural uniqueness lies in its tightly wound, three-dimensional structure, which contributes to its potent venomous effects.
Api m 4 (Icarapin): Icarapin, classified under the antigen 5 family, is a major allergen with a unique structure. It plays a role in cross-reactivity with other allergenic proteins, making it a significant player in honeybee venom allergies.

Our Featured Honeybee Allergens

Cat.No.	Product Name	Species	Source	Tag
ra-3014A	Recombinant Api c 1	Apis cerana (Asiatic honey bee)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3015A	Recombinant Api d 1	Apis dorsata (Giant honeybee)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3016A	Recombinant Api m 1	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli	His
ra-3016AB	Recombinant Api m 1, Biotin Labeled	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli	His
ra-3025A	Recombinant Api m 10	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3026A	Recombinant Api m 11	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3027A	Recombinant Api m 12	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3017A	Recombinant Api m 2	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3018A	Recombinant Api m 3	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3019A	Recombinant Api m 4	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli	His
ra-3019AB	Recombinant Api m 4, Biotin Labeled	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli	His
ra-3020A	Recombinant Api m 5	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3021A	Recombinant Api m 6	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3022A	Recombinant Api m 7	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3023A	Recombinant Api m 8	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3024A	Recombinant Api m 9	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli	His-Sumo
ra-3024AB	Recombinant Api m 9, Biotin Labeled	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	E.coli	His-Sumo
na-3370A	Bee Venom Extract From A. mellifera	Apis mellifera (Honey bee)	Apis mellifera

Biological Functions and Allergic Responses

Honeybee allergen proteins, despite their detrimental effects in allergic individuals, serve crucial biological functions in honeybees. For instance, Melittin is essential for honeybee defense as it disrupts cell membranes of predators, leading to their deterrence or demise. Similarly, Apamin aids in the immobilization of prey, facilitating the honeybee's carnivorous diet. However, when these proteins come into contact with humans who are allergic to honeybee stings, they trigger a cascade of immune responses.

Upon an allergic individual's exposure to honeybee venom, the body's immune system identifies these allergen proteins as harmful invaders. This recognition leads to the release of histamines, cytokines, and other inflammatory mediators. Consequently, the individual experiences symptoms ranging from mild itching and swelling to severe anaphylactic shock. The molecular mechanisms underlying these reactions involve the activation of mast cells and basophils, which release histamine and other chemicals responsible for allergic symptoms.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications

The identification of honeybee allergen proteins has paved the way for advanced diagnostic tools, aiding in the accurate detection of honeybee venom allergies. Allergists utilize specific IgE tests to pinpoint the culprit proteins, enabling tailored allergy management.

Furthermore, researchers are actively working on developing honeybee venom allergy vaccines. These vaccines aim to desensitize individuals by gradually exposing them to increasing doses of honeybee allergen proteins. This process helps the immune system build tolerance and reduce allergic reactions upon subsequent honeybee stings.

Treatment for honeybee venom allergies primarily includes the use of epinephrine (adrenaline) to counteract severe allergic reactions. However, long-term management often involves allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), which includes administering honeybee venom allergen proteins in controlled settings to reduce sensitivity.

Creative BioMart offers a wide range of high-quality honeybee allergen-related protein products. Whether you're researching honeybee venom allergies or developing diagnostics and treatments, our well-characterized products, including Melittin, Api m 1, Api m 2, and Api m 4, provide the reliability you need. Trust us to fuel your allergy research and treatment advancements. Contact us and explore our catalog now for top-notch honeybee allergen proteins.