Variations in latex protein profiles

• Published in: Clinical materials 1993, Vol.14 (3), p.199-205
• Main Authors: Fisher, Benjamin R., Tomazic, Vesna J., Withrow, Thomas J., Matesic, Lydia E.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Analytical, structural and metabolic biochemistry; Biological and medical sciences; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; General aspects, investigation methods; Proteins
• ISSN: 0267-6605; 1878-6979
• DOI: 10.1016/0267-6605(93)90003-P

Delayed hypersensitivity to natural latex is well documented, but there is an increasing number of reports of severe allergic reactions associated with exposure to latex products. Recent studies indicate that latex anaphylaxis is mediated by water soluble proteins in latex, but the specific antigen(s) responsible for the sensitization has not been definitively identified. Differences in the type and severity of the allergic reaction may be due to differences in an individual's sensitivity or variations in the constituent proteins found in latex. The purpose of this study was to assess the qualitative differences between the proteins present in a variety of latex sources. Proteins extracted from fresh and ammoniated latex and various latex products were separated by SDS-PAGE. Our results indicate that substantial variation exists in the constituent proteins obtained from various sources of raw latex, various latex products, as well as among the same product from various manufacturers. These qualitative differences in the proteins of various latex preparations may help explain, in part, variations in the reported identification of latex antigens.