T CELL RECEPTOR EPITOPES FOR SHORT RAGWEED POLLEN

摘要

The present invention provides isolated peptides of the major protein allergens of Ambrosia artemisiifolia, or short ragweed pollen. Peptides within the scope of the invention comprise at least one T cell epitope, or preferably at least two T cell epitopes of a protein allergen selected from the allergens Amb a I.1, Amb a I.2, Amb a I.3, Amb a I.4 and Amb a II. Modified peptides having similar or enhanced therapeutic properties as the corresponding, naturally-occurring allergen or portion thereof, but having reduced side effects are disclosed. The invention also provides nucleic acids having sequences encoding peptides of the invention. Methods of treatment or of diagnosis of sensitivity to ragweed pollen allergens in an individual and therapeutic compositions comprising one or more peptides of the invention are also provided.