Abstract: The invention relates to a method by which expression cDNA clone banks are screened by means of IgE antibodies derived from the sera of allergic individuals, or by means of monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies. This type of screening is used for the detection of polynucleotides whose open-reading frames code for allergenically active proteins. These proteins are characterized in that their biological activity as allergens is equal to that of plant allergens occurring in nature.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method by which expression cDNA clone banks are screened by means of IgE antibodies derived from the sera of allergic individuals, or by means of monoclonal or polyconal antibodies. This type of screening is used for the detection of polynucleotides whose open-reading frames code for allergenically active proteins. These proteins are characterized in that their biological activity as allergens is equal to that of plant allergens occurring in nature.

Abstract: This invention provides recombinant DNA molecules which code for polypeptides that exhibit the antigenicity of an Aln g I allergen of alder, Alnus sp., of a Cor a I allergen of hazel or of a Bet v I allergen of birch and other plants of the order Fageles, and for polypeptides comprising at least one epitope thereof, as well as nucleic acids which under stringent conditions hybridize with such DNA sequences or are derivable from such sequences by degeneracy of the genetic code. In addition, methods are described for using the polypeptides coded by these DNA molecules and their use in the diagnosis or therapy of allergic diseases.

Abstract: The invention provides recombinant DNA molecules which code for polypeptides that exhibit the antigenicity of a P14 allergen of birch Betula verrucosa and other plants of the order Fagales, and for polypeptides comprising at least one epitope thereof, as well as nucleic acids which under stringent conditions hybridize with such DNA sequences or are derivable from such sequences by degeneracy of the genetic code. A method is provided that permits purification of P14 allergens or cross reactive allergens by means of binding to poly(L-proline). In addition, methods are described for making the proteins and polypeptides coded by these DNA molecules and their use in the diagnosis or therapy of diseases.