Dipeptidyl peptidase IV of the Vespa velutina nigrithorax venom is recognized as a relevant allergen

Abstract

Background: Vespa velutina nigrithorax (VVN), typically known as the Asian yellow-legged wasp, has been one of the most significant invasive species in western Europe since 2010. Currently, VVN has become the most prevalent cause of Hymenoptera anaphylaxis in the north and northwestern Spain. For this reason, it is crucial to diagnose anaphylaxis cases in the acute moment for carrying out the best available treatment as soon as possible.

Objective: To achieve a complete understanding of the venom allergen composition that will help to develop efficient diagnostics and immunotherapy treatments on the basis of this venom.

Methods: In this study, autochthonous VVN venom was obtained and characterized by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing, followed by a mass spectrometry analysis. In addition, the allergenic sensitization profile of patients diagnosed with allergy to VVN in the Allergology Service of Navarra University Hospital between the years 2017 and 2020 was studied by immunoblotting and specific IgE (ImmunoCAP, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Uppsala, Sweden).

Results: Two new allergens (dipeptidyl peptidase IV and serin protease) were identified in the autochthonous VVN venom, and their identity was confirmed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. The study by ImmunoCAP using sera from 12 patients who had a systemic reaction after a VVN sting revealed groups 5 and 1 as predominant allergens (92% and 34%, respectively). Furthermore, the immunoblotting assay recognized dipeptidyl peptidase IV (50%) in the sera of these patients.

Conclusion: Serine protease and the dipeptidyl peptidase IV are components of the VVN venom, and the latter is an allergen recognized in the studied population.