Development of allergy tests and desensitation strategies for horses suffering from insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH) based on Culicoides-allergens expressed and purified from insect cells

• Research unit: INNOSUISSE
• Project number: 9237.3;7 PFLS-LS

Short description (German)

Development of allergy tests and desensitation strategies for horses suffering from insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH) based on Culicoides-allergens expressed and purified from insect cells

Short description (English)

Development of allergy tests and desensitation strategies for horses suffering from insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH) based on Culicoides-allergens expressed and purified from insect cells

Abstract (German)

The genus Culicoides represents a group of ectoparasites that cause allergic reactions in animals, most notably horses. In allergy-tests used to date, mostly complex ectracts originating from different sources are being used as antigens. These antigens have to be continuously generated and isolated, and considerable crossreactivity to other insects, including the genus Simulium, has been observed. In this project, we will identify the major allergens of Culicoides midges, and we will express them as recombinant antigens in insect cells employing the baculovirus-expressions-system. These allergens will be purified, validated in IgE-allergy tests, and will finally be used for desensitation of horses.