Role and Mechanism of Galactose-Alpha-1,3-Galactose in the Elicitation of Delayed Anaphylactic Reactions to Red Meat

Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2019 Jan 23;19(1):3. doi: 10.1007/s11882-019-0835-9.

Abstract

Purpose of review: The alpha-Gal (α-Gal) syndrome is characterized by the presence of IgE antibodies directed at the carbohydrate galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (α-Gal). In this article, we review the presence of α-Gal in food and non-food sources; we discuss the evolutionary context of the antibody response to α-Gal and highlight immune responses to α-Gal and other carbohydrates.

Recent findings: IgE antibodies have been associated with delayed allergy to red meat. In addition to food, drugs, and other products of animal origin are increasingly perceived as a risk for patients sensitized to α-Gal. The link between tick bites and anti-α-Gal IgE-antibody production that has been established first by epidemiological studies has now been confirmed in mouse models. The anti-α-Gal immune response is complex and characterized by a unique feature. IgM and IgG antibodies have been found to confer protection against pathogens whereas the IgE-response to α-Gal is detrimental and causes severe reactions upon exposure to mammalian meat and other products.

Keywords: Alpha-gal; Carbohydrate; Food allergy; Red meat allergy; Tick.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anaphylaxis / immunology*
  • Animals
  • Food Hypersensitivity / immunology*
  • Galactose / adverse effects*
  • Galactose / analogs & derivatives
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity, Delayed / immunology*
  • Mice
  • Red Meat / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Galactose