Hev b 1, Hev b 2 and Hev b 3 content in natural rubber latex and latex gloves

Contact with latex gloves or powder from the gloves can induce an allergic reaction in sensitized persons. Although eleven latex allergens (Hev b 1 to Hev b 11) have been identified, there have been few reports on the levels of the specific allergens present in latex gloves. A study was carried out to compare the contents of three latex allergens, Hev b 1, Hev b 2 and Hev b 3 in latex examination gloves and in fresh natural rubber latex. Hev b 2 is a soluble protein located in latex organelles called lutoids1, whereas Hev b 1 and Hev b 3 are insoluble proteins located on the surface of the rubber particles2. Hev b 3 is slightly solubilized when the latex is ammoniated for glove manufacture3, and this property is similarly expected of Hev b 1. (Résumé d'auteur