What is Cockroach Allergen

Cockroach allergen proteins are an intriguing yet troublesome group of proteins that play a significant role in triggering allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. These proteins belong to the Bla g molecular family, and they possess distinct structural characteristics that make them potent allergens. In this article, we will delve into the details of cockroach allergen proteins, exploring their composition, biological functions, and their importance in diagnostic development, vaccine research, and treatment strategies.

Cockroach Allergens: Composition and Structural Characteristics

Cockroach allergen proteins are primarily composed of a diverse array of molecules, with Bla g 1 and Bla g 2 being the most prominent allergens. Bla g 1 is a glycoprotein found in the feces and saliva of cockroaches, while Bla g 2 is a hemoglobin-derived protein that is also found in their feces. These allergens are part of the Bla g molecular family, characterized by their ability to induce allergic responses in humans.

Structurally, Bla g 1 and Bla g 2 possess unique features that make them potent allergens. Bla g 1, for instance, has a three-dimensional structure that allows it to bind to human IgE antibodies, triggering the release of histamines and other inflammatory mediators upon exposure. On the other hand, Bla g 2's structural similarity to certain human proteins can lead to cross-reactivity, further exacerbating allergic reactions in individuals sensitized to it. These structural characteristics contribute to their classification as major indoor allergens.

Our Featured Cockroach Allergens

Cat.No.	Product Name	Species	Source	Tag
ra-3031A	Recombinant Bla g 1	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	E.coli	His
ra-3031AB	Recombinant Bla g 1, Biotin Labeled	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	E.coli	His
ra-3040A	Recombinant Bla g 11	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3041A	Recombinant Bla g 12	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3032A	Recombinant Bla g 2	German cockroach	Yeast	His
ra-3032AB	Recombinant Bla g 2, Biotin Labeled	German cockroach	Yeast	His
ra-3033A	Recombinant Bla g 3	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3034A	Recombinant Bla g 4	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	Yeast	His
ra-3034AY	Recombinant Bla g 4	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	Yeast	His
ra-3034AB	Recombinant Bla g 4, Biotin Labeled	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	Yeast	His
ra-3034AYB	Recombinant Bla g 4, Biotin Labeled	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	Yeast	His
ra-3035A	Recombinant Bla g 5	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	Yeast	His
ra-3035AB	Recombinant Bla g 5, Biotin Labeled	German cockroach	E.coli	His
ra-3036A	Recombinant Bla g 6	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3037A	Recombinant Bla g 7	German cockroach	E.coli	His
ra-3037AB	Recombinant Bla g 7, Biotin Labeled	German cockroach	E.coli	His
ra-3038A	Recombinant Bla g 8	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3039A	Recombinant Bla g 9	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	E.coli	His
na-3367A	Cockroach Extract From B. orientalis	Blatta orientalis	Blatta orientalis
na-3368A	Cockroach Extract From B. germanica	Blattella germanica (German cockroach)	Blattella germanica
na-3369A	Cockroach Extract From P. americana	Periplaneta americana	Periplaneta americana
ra-3201A	Recombinant Per a 1	Periplaneta americana (American cockroach)	E.coli	His
ra-3208A	Recombinant Per a 10	Periplaneta americana (American cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3209A	Recombinant Per a 11	Periplaneta americana (American cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3210A	Recombinant Per a 12	Periplaneta americana (American cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3211A	Recombinant Per a 13	Periplaneta americana (American cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3202A	Recombinant Per a 2	Periplaneta americana (American cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3203A	Recombinant Per a 3	Periplaneta americana (American cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3204A	Recombinant Per a 5	Periplaneta americana (American cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3205A	Recombinant Per a 6	Periplaneta americana (American cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3206A	Recombinant Per a 7	Periplaneta americana (American cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3207A	Recombinant Per a 9	Periplaneta americana (American cockroach)	E.coli or Yeast	His

Biological Functions and Allergic Role

Cockroach allergen proteins have a pivotal biological function in the life of cockroaches. They assist in digestion by breaking down complex organic compounds, such as hemoglobin and cellulose, into simpler forms that the cockroach can absorb. However, when these allergen proteins are inhaled or come into contact with mucous membranes, they can initiate an immune response in individuals predisposed to allergies.

In allergic individuals, exposure to cockroach allergen proteins can lead to a cascade of immune reactions. Upon initial exposure, the immune system produces specific antibodies, known as IgE, against these proteins. Subsequent exposures result in the binding of IgE to the allergen, triggering the release of histamines and other inflammatory chemicals. This immune response leads to allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and in severe cases, asthma attacks. Cockroach allergens are particularly problematic in urban environments, where cockroach infestations can be prevalent.

Diagnostic Development, Vaccine Research, and Treatment

Understanding the role of cockroach allergen proteins has paved the way for their utilization in diagnostic tools, vaccine development, and potential treatments.

Diagnostic Development: Cockroach allergen proteins are used as key components in diagnostic tests to identify individuals who are sensitized to cockroach allergens. Skin prick tests and blood tests that detect specific IgE antibodies are commonly employed to diagnose cockroach allergies.
Vaccine Research: Researchers are actively exploring the development of vaccines to desensitize individuals with cockroach allergies. These vaccines aim to modulate the immune response to cockroach allergen proteins, reducing the severity of allergic reactions over time.
Treatment: Current treatment strategies for cockroach allergies primarily involve allergen avoidance, medications like antihistamines, and allergy shots (immunotherapy) to build tolerance to cockroach allergens. The identification and characterization of cockroach allergen proteins have contributed to the development of more effective treatment approaches.

At Creative BioMart, we offer top-quality cockroach allergen-related protein products. Our catalog includes essential proteins like Bla g 1 and Bla g 2, crucial for cockroach allergy research. Whether you're working on diagnostics, vaccines, or allergy treatments, our proteins are designed to support your research. With a focus on excellence, we provide scientists worldwide with the tools they need to advance cockroach allergen-related studies. Contact us and explore our selection today and experience our trusted quality and reliability.