Determination of Morphology and Allergenic Proteins of Pistachio (Pistachia vera L.) Pollens in Gaziantep

Abstract

Allergens can be defined as antigens that stimulatespecific IgE (Immunoglobulin E) antibody formation and react with it. In thisstudy, the morphologies of Pistachia veraallergenic pollens belonging to Anacardiaceae family in South Eastern Anatoliawere examined by light microscopy and pollens extracts were prepared from thesespecies. The specimens used in morphological studies were obtained fromGaziantep University campus area. Slides of pollens were prepared according toWodehouse (1935) method and the morphological characteristics of pollens weredetermined using microphotographs taken by light microscopy. Pollens crudeextracts were obtaıned from the flora grown in this region. Extraction methodestablished by Aytug et al. (1991) was used to prepare crude extracts from thecollected pollens, 'Coca' solution was added extensively and sterile filtrationtechnique was used for sterilization. BCA assay and absorbance measurementswere used to determine the protein concentration. Standard curve was generatedusing concentrations and absorbance values of standard protein samples preparedat different concentrations (0, 1-1mg/ml). The protein concentration of thepollens extracts was calculated using the correct equation obtained from thiscurve. These crude extracts contain many major and minor allergens that can beused to diagnose allergic diseases. Due to the very high concentration ofallergenic proteins in P. vera, itcan be included in allergen kits. Moreover, allergy tests should be conductedto those living in this region. The results obtained from this study can bothcontribute to systematic studies and to the treatment of allergic diseasescaused by these types of pollens.