Cloning and sequencing of a cDNA expressing a recombinant house dust mite protein that binds human IgE and corresponds to an important low molecular weight allergen.

A cDNA clone coding for a mite allergen of mol wt approximately 14,000 has been isolated and its DNA sequence determined. The native component from mite extracts encoded by this DNA was identified by immunoprobing blots of mite body extract with human IgE eluted from the electroblotted cloned fusion polypeptides derived from the expressed cDNA clone. The clone encodes a polypeptide with a deduced mol wt of 17,460. The deduced amino acid sequence was not homologous to any known protein sequences and it contains no cysteine or tryptophan. On blots, 21 of 38 sera from mite-allergic subjects recognized the cloned material, and this recognition strongly correlated with IgE-binding to the native component on protein blots of mite extract.