Comparative analysis of biological activities of Der p I-derived peptides on Fcε receptor-bearing cells from Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus-sensitive patients

Abstract

The ability of four uncoupled synthetic peptides (p52-71, p117-133, p176-187, p188-199) derived from Der p I, a major allergen from the house dust mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dpt) to stimulate FcεR+ cells from Dpt-sensitive patients was comparatively analysed. Each free peptide may specifically stimulate basophils (FcεRI+ cells) and platelets (FcεRII+ cells) from patients with significant levels of anti-Der p I IgE antibodies; p52-71 and p117-133 appear the best cell stimulation inducers. Both concentration-dependent biological activities of Der p I-peptide on FcεR+ cells are enhanced by coupling peptide to a carrier (as human serum albumin). Interestingly each Der p I-sensitive patient tested presents an individual pattern of response to peptide. Thus, from our results it appears that different Der p I sequences could be involved in the immune response to Der p I.