What is Lobster Allergen

Lobsters, often considered the epitome of maritime luxury, have consistently delighted the palates of seafood enthusiasts for generations. However, within this culinary delight lies an unexpected peril – the potential to trigger allergic reactions in certain individuals. The mere contemplation of savoring lobster, which is so widely adored, can set off a wide range of allergic responses, varying from mild discomfort to the life-threatening specter of anaphylaxis. At the heart of these perplexing reactions lie the lobster allergen proteins, the elusive culprits. In the forthcoming sections, we will embark on an exploratory journey into the world of these proteins, shedding light on their composition, functions, and, most importantly, their far-reaching implications for those who grapple with allergies.

The Anatomy of Lobster Allergen Proteins

Lobster allergen proteins primarily comprise a group of molecules known as tropomyosins. Tropomyosins are responsible for muscle contraction in various animals, including lobsters. Within this molecular family, the allergenic protein specifically linked to lobster allergies is called Pan s 1 (Panulirus species allergen 1). Pan s 1 exhibits structural characteristics that make it a potent allergen. Its compact, coiled structure, rich in alpha-helices, allows it to be stable and resistant to heat and digestive enzymes, thus making it capable of surviving the journey through the human digestive tract.

Our Featured Lobster Allergens

Cat.No.	Product Name	Species	Source	Tag
ra-3028A	Recombinant Arc s 8	Archaeopotamobius sibiriensis (Crayfish)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3169A	Recombinant Hom a 1	Homarus americanus (American lobster)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3170A	Recombinant Hom a 3	Homarus americanus (American lobster)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3171A	Recombinant Hom a 6	Homarus americanus (American lobster)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3191A	Recombinant Pan s 1	Panulirus stimpsoni (Spiny lobster)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3233A	Recombinant Pon l 4	Pontastacus leptodactylus (Narrow-clawed crayfish)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3234AB	Recombinant Pon l 7, Biotin Labeled	Pontastacus leptodactylus (Narrow-clawed crayfish)	E.coli	His
ra-3234A	Recombinant Pon l 7	Pontastacus leptodactylus (Narrow-clawed crayfish)	E.coli	His
ra-3236A	Recombinant Pro c 1	Procambarus clarkii (Red swamp crayfish)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3237A	Recombinant Pro c 2	Procambarus clarkii (Red swamp crayfish)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3238A	Recombinant Pro c 5	Procambarus clarkii (Red swamp crayfish)	E.coli or Yeast	His
ra-3239A	Recombinant Pro c 8	Procambarus clarkii (Red swamp crayfish)	E.coli or Yeast	His

Biological Functions and Allergic Implications

Pan s 1 and its fellow tropomyosins in lobsters play vital roles in muscle contraction. However, for individuals with lobster allergies, exposure to these proteins can elicit immune responses leading to allergy symptoms. The molecular mechanisms underlying these allergic reactions involve the immune system mistaking Pan s 1 for a harmful invader. When someone with a lobster allergy consumes lobster or is exposed to aerosolized allergenic proteins during cooking, the immune system recognizes Pan s 1 as a threat. This recognition triggers the production of antibodies, mainly immunoglobulin E (IgE), leading to the release of histamine and other inflammatory molecules. This cascade of events results in the classic symptoms of an allergic reaction, including hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications

Understanding lobster allergen proteins, such as Pan s 1, has paved the way for diagnostic development, vaccines, and potential treatments for lobster allergies.

Diagnostic Development: Allergen-specific IgE testing can identify individuals with lobster allergies by measuring their immune response to Pan s 1. This testing helps clinicians make accurate diagnoses and advise patients on allergen avoidance strategies.
Vaccine Development: Researchers have explored the possibility of developing allergy vaccines, known as allergen immunotherapy, to desensitize individuals with lobster allergies. These vaccines contain gradually increasing doses of purified Pan s 1 or modified forms of the protein. Over time, this therapy can train the immune system to tolerate lobster allergen proteins, reducing the severity of allergic reactions.
Treatment: Currently, the primary treatment for lobster allergies involves strict allergen avoidance. However, in cases of accidental exposure or severe reactions, individuals may require antihistamines, epinephrine injections, and medical attention. Ongoing research seeks to develop more targeted therapies to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for those with lobster allergies.

Creative BioMart offers a diverse selection of protein products related to lobster allergens. Our high-quality offerings provide valuable resources for researchers exploring various aspects of lobster allergen studies. Whether you are focused on allergen characterization, diagnostic development, or therapeutic research, our proteins, including the well-known Pan s 1, are produced with utmost precision to support your scientific endeavors. Contact us and explore our portfolio today to access top-tier allergen proteins and enhance your scientific endeavors.