Cat allergen proteins are a significant concern for millions of individuals worldwide who experience allergies triggered by exposure to cats. These allergen proteins, primarily found in cat dander, saliva, and urine, are molecular substances that provoke allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. In this article, we will delve into the details of cat allergen proteins, including their composition, biological functions, and their applications in diagnostics, vaccine development, and treatment.
One of the most well-known cat allergen proteins is Fel d 1, which stands for Felis domesticus 1. Fel d 1 belongs to the molecular family of secretoglobins and is primarily found in a cat's saliva and sebaceous glands. This allergen is a glycoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 35 kDa. Fel d 1 is unique in its structure, as it forms a heterodimer consisting of two protein subunits, namely Fel d 1A and Fel d 1B. The allergen is often carried on tiny, lightweight particles such as dander, making it easily airborne and thus highly allergenic.
| Cat.No. | Product Name | Species | Source | Tag |
| ra-3336AP | Recombinant Fel d 1 | Cat | Yeast | His |
| ra-3336A | Recombinant Fel d 1 | Cat | E.coli | His |
| ra-3336AB | Recombinant Fel d 1, Biotin Labeled | Cat | E.coli | His |
| ra-3336APB | Recombinant Fel d 1, Biotin Labeled | Cat | Yeast | His |
| ra-3337A | Recombinant Fel d 2 | Felis domesticus (F. catus) (Domestic cat) | E.coli or Yeast | His |
| ra-3338A | Recombinant Fel d 3 | Felis domesticus (F. catus) (Domestic cat) | E.coli | His |
| ra-3338AB | Recombinant Fel d 3, Biotin Labeled | Felis domesticus (F. catus) (Domestic cat) | E.coli | His |
| ra-3339A | Recombinant Fel d 4 | Cat | E.coli | |
| ra-3339AB | Recombinant Fel d 4, Biotin Labeled | Cat | E.coli | |
| ra-3340A | Recombinant Fel d 5 | Felis domesticus (F. catus) (Domestic cat) | E.coli or Yeast | His |
| ra-3341A | Recombinant Fel d 6 | Felis domesticus (F. catus) (Domestic cat) | E.coli or Yeast | His |
| ra-3342A | Recombinant Fel d 7 | Felis domesticus (F. catus) (Domestic cat) | E.coli | His |
| ra-3342AB | Recombinant Fel d 7, Biotin Labeled | Felis domesticus (F. catus) (Domestic cat) | E.coli | His |
| ra-3343A | Recombinant Fel d 8 | Felis domesticus (F. catus) (Domestic cat) | E.coli | His |
| ra-3343AB | Recombinant Fel d 8, Biotin Labeled | Felis domesticus (F. catus) (Domestic cat) | E.coli | His |
The biological function of cat allergen proteins remains a subject of ongoing research. It is believed that Fel d 1, in particular, may serve as a means of communication between cats, as it is primarily produced in their salivary glands. When cats groom themselves, they spread Fel d 1 throughout their fur, leading to its ubiquitous presence in their environment.
In individuals with cat allergies, exposure to Fel d 1 and other cat allergen proteins can lead to a variety of allergic reactions. These reactions typically include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, coughing, and skin rashes. The molecular mechanism behind these allergic responses involves the immune system's recognition of cat allergen proteins as foreign invaders. This recognition triggers the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals, leading to the classic symptoms of allergies.
Cat allergen proteins play a crucial role in the development of diagnostic tests for cat allergies. Immunological assays, such as skin prick tests and blood tests, are commonly used to detect specific IgE antibodies produced in response to exposure to cat allergens. These tests can help individuals determine if they are allergic to cats and to what extent.
Moreover, cat allergen proteins are also being explored in the development of allergy vaccines, known as allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT). AIT aims to desensitize individuals with cat allergies by exposing them to gradually increasing doses of cat allergens. This process helps the immune system develop tolerance, reducing the severity of allergic reactions over time.
In addition to AIT, research is ongoing to find innovative treatments for cat allergies. Some promising approaches involve the development of medications that target specific immune pathways responsible for allergic reactions, providing potential relief for cat allergy sufferers.
Creative BioMart offers a comprehensive range of high-quality cat allergen-related protein products. Our diverse catalog includes a variety of cat allergen proteins, meticulously produced to meet the needs of researchers and diagnostic assay developers. Whether you are studying cat allergies, developing allergy diagnostics, or working on immunotherapy solutions, our cat allergen proteins are the ideal choice for your research needs. Contact us and explore our extensive selection today to advance your studies in this critical field.
