Abstract
Purpose of the Review
This review explores the connection between sensitization to tree pollen and reactivity to plant-based foods in clinical settings. It investigates whether this relationship is “causal,” “concurrent,” or “random,” while examining the underlying molecular mechanisms.
Recent Findings
Three scenarios are discussed: (a) cross-reactivity between tree pollen and foods due to shared molecular components, resulting in IgE-mediated food reactions; (b) tree pollen reactivity arising from cross-reactive molecules in foods, potentially complicating diagnosis; and (c) independent recognition of molecular components in tree pollen and foods. The roles of allergens like pathogenesis-related-protein group 10 (PR-10) in Fagales trees and non-specific lipid transfer proteins (nsLTPs) in olive and plane trees are explored for their cross-reactivity and adverse reaction potential. The role of gibberellin-regulated proteins (GRPs) in the “Cypress/Peach syndrome” is also investigated.
Summary of Major Conclusion
The review emphasizes complex interactions between tree pollen reactivity and food allergies, highlighting the need for thorough molecular reactivity diagnostics and detailed medical histories to understand these intricate connections. It underscores cross-reactivity among homologous allergens, the significance of structural similarity in causing adverse reactions, and the influence of co-factors on clinical outcomes. Ultimately, the review provides insights into the intricate nature of tree-related reactivity, offering implications for clinical diagnosis and management.
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Enrico Scala, Alessandro Maria Marra, Valeria Villella, Giorgio Celi, and Riccardo Asero each declare no potential conflicts of interest.
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Scala, E., Marra, A.M., Villella, V. et al. Tree-Pollen-Related Food Allergies: Birch Pollen and More. Curr Treat Options Allergy 10, 401–412 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40521-023-00352-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40521-023-00352-7