· · Single source ·Updated

Researchers test pumpkin enzyme to reduce peanut allergy protein recognition

Scientists from Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences and Wroclaw Medical University published lab results on a pumpkin-derived enzyme that weakens peanut protein binding in the journal Food Chemistry.

Pumpkin-derived enzyme weakens peanut proteins' binding to allergy antibodies in lab tests
File photo Pumpkin-derived enzyme weakens peanut proteins' binding to allergy antibodies in lab tests Photo: Phys.org

Study investigates natural enzyme effects

Researchers examined whether an enzyme from figleaf gourd could lower how antibodies recognize peanut proteins. The study found that enzymatic hydrolysis significantly reduced the immunoreactivity of these proteins in laboratory settings. Ewa Willak-Janc noted that even small amounts of allergens can trigger serious reactions like anaphylaxis.

Results show reduced allergenic potential

The enzyme precisely cuts peanut proteins without destroying them, according to the publication details. This process points to a potential method for developing foods with lower allergenic risk. The team is looking for ways to modify allergenic proteins to reduce immune system recognition.

Reported by one outlet

Only one outlet has published this. Nothing here has been checked against a second report, so read it as that outlet's account and follow the link below for the original.

Reported by

1 independent outlet. Headline as published. Links open the original report.