Partial characterization of RC-13, a homogeneous fraction isolated from castor bean allergens (CB-1A)

An Acad Bras Cienc. 1987 Sep;59(3):149-53.

Abstract

Allergen RC-13's amino acid composition was determined-Lys3, His1, Arg7, Asp6, Thr2, Ser11, Glu29, Pro2, Gly7, Ala4, Cys6, Val5, Met1, Ile3, Leu3, Tyr1; 91 residues. Partial specific volume and minimum molecular weight evaluated from this composition were, respectively, 0.694 cm3/g and 10,194. SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis performed in the reduced and alkylated form of the allergen revealed a single band, suggesting the existence of only one polypeptide chain in the molecule. Results obtained for carbohydrate analysis by gas-liquid chromatography were: 22.2% galactose and 16.2% mannose--approximately 38% of neutral sugars. Employment of the amino acid methodology for analysis of amino sugars revealed two residues of glucosamine per molecule of the allergen. Hydrolyses with trypsin, alpha-chymotrypsin and type VII protease were tested for sequence studies. Trypsin was considered a suitable enzyme for such purpose.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Allergens / isolation & purification*
  • Amino Acids / analysis*
  • Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel
  • Peptide Mapping
  • Plants, Toxic*
  • Ricinus communis*
  • Ricinus*

Substances

  • Allergens
  • Amino Acids