Learning component names one by one is not enough. Molecular allergology becomes clinically useful when components are grouped into families with shared biology, stability, cross-reactivity, and typical clinical associations.
Often linked with birch-related pollen-food patterns. Generally labile and frequently associated with local oral symptoms, though interpretation still depends on context.
Highly cross-reactive plant proteins that can produce broad pollen and plant-food sensitisation patterns, sometimes with limited clinical relevance.
More stable plant food proteins. In some regions and contexts, sensitisation may be associated with more systemic reactions.
Stable seed and nut proteins, including 2S albumins, 7S vicilins, and 11S legumins. Often important in food allergy risk interpretation.
Cross-reactive invertebrate proteins relevant to shellfish, mite, cockroach, and parasite-related interpretation.
Important in animal dander allergy and cross-reactivity across furry animals; clinical relevance varies by exposure and pattern.
Why families matter
Protein family tells the interpreter what kind of biological story may be present. Is the molecule stable or labile? Is it common across many sources? Does it suggest primary sensitisation, cross-reactivity, or a pattern that needs further review?
Why families are not enough
Families do not make diagnoses by themselves. Geography, diet, pollen exposure, age, symptom history, and assay choice all influence interpretation. MAA education should teach families as a reasoning tool, not a rigid lookup table.