Dog skin dander has been proven to cause human allergic reactions to those who are sensitive to the allergens in the dogs. However, past studies have shown a difference in allergic reaction to specific breeds, breaking dog breeds into two main categories: hypoallergenic and non-hypoallergenic. Within these groups, there are different hypoallergenicity levels, but overall the hypoallergenic dog group does not cause an allergic reaction, whereas non-hypoallergenic, or shedding dogs, do. Because all dogs in both groups have dander on their skin, the allergic reaction must be catalyzed by a different physiological substance, one that potentially can be paired with the dogs’ shedding or lack thereof. In this study, the allergens specific to the hair follicle in each dog group were compared via sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and the Western blot test. In these tests, the samples were homogenized in a solution and, with the use of an electric current, run through a gel made to separate specific proteins. The Western blot test pins a specific protein or allergen needed with the use of the corresponding allergen’s antibody. The Can f 1 allergen, the most abundant allergen in canines, is suspected to initiate allergic reactions in humans. Thus, the Can f 1 allergen was isolated from dogs in each group and loosely quantified to indicate the presence of the allergen in the hair follicles with the use of a rabbit Can f 1 antibody. The testing process is hypothesized to yield results of a higher Can f 1 allergen in the hair follicles of dogs in the shedding group, and lower Can f 1 allergen in the hair follicles of dogs in the hypoallergenic group. With these results, further studies can be conducted to advance the current treatment for human allergies, or prevent reactions via combating the source.

Differentiation of the Can f 1 allergen in hypoallergenic dog hair follicles compared to shedding dog hair follicles

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.