Kiwifruit defense protein, kiwellin (Act d 5) percutaneously sensitizes mouse models through the epidermal application of crude kiwifruit extract

Background: Kiwifruit is a popular fruit consumed worldwide and is also used as a cosmetic ingredient. How- ever, it is known to cause allergic reactions in humans. Recent studies have suggested an association between food allergy and food allergens entering the body via the skin. However, percutaneously sensitizing kiwifruit allergens have not been identified in human studies or in animal models. Objective: This study aimed to identify kiwifruit proteins that percutaneously sensitized mice...