Impact of Enolase in Allergic Disease.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: There is growing evidence that enolase is involved in allergy. This manuscript reviews the impact of enolase in allergic disease and describes several sources of this allergen including molds, plants, animals, and pollens, among others. IgE epitopes are carefully analyzed as they may account for cross-reactivity.

RECENT FINDINGS: Enolase has been previously associated to food allergy and contact dermatitis. However, other groups and we have identified recently novel enolases derived from diverse pollens in patients suffering asthma and allergic rhinitis. Exposure to outdoor enolases may cause respiratory disease. Enolase has been identified across various species and its amino acid sequence is highly conserved among different sources of this allergen. The demonstration that enolase is involved in many allergic diseases including respiratory allergies, is of clinic relevance. Thus, the development of novel molecular-based diagnostic and therapeutic strategies may pave the way for improved diagnosis and therapeutics.