PRODUCTION AND USE OF RECOMBINANT ALLERGENS

Molecular biology and biotechnology allowed the fast elucidation of th e primary structures of so far several hundred allergens. By using the available genetic information, production of higly pure allergens in virtually unlimited amounts could be achieved. There is no doubt that recombinant allergens will substantially contribute to improve the rel iability of in-vitro- and in-vivo-diagnosis of allergic diseases. More over, molecular biology enlarged substantially our knowledge on immuno logical cross-reactivities and provide the technology to rationally mu tagenize allergenic molecules. In consequence, structure-function anal yses become practicable and will contribute to elucidate the immunolog ical mechanisms of interaction between the allergens and T- and B-lymp hocytes. Such progress will, in turn, open new ways for safer immunoth erapy of allergic diseases as can be deduced from recently emerging co ncepts.