Galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose
Appearance
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Names | |
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Systematic IUPAC name
3-O-α-D-Galactopyranosyl-D-galactopyranose | |
Other names
Alpha-gal; 3-α-Galactobiose; Gal(α1-3)Gal; alpha-D-Gal-(1→3)-D-Gal
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Identifiers | |
3D model (JSmol)
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ChemSpider | |
PubChem CID
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CompTox Dashboard (EPA)
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Properties | |
C12H22O11 | |
Molar mass | 342.297 g·mol−1 |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
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Galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose, commonly known as alpha gal, is a carbohydrate found in most organisms' cell membranes. It is not found in primates, including humans, whose immune systems recognize it as a foreign body and produce xenoreactive immunoglobulin M antibodies, leading to organ rejection after transplantation.[1] It has also been suggested to play a role in an IgE-specific allergic response to some meats.[2] Recent studies are showing increasing evidence that this allergy may be induced by the bite of the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum)[3] in North America and the castor bean tick (Ixodes ricincus) in Sweden.[4]
See also
References
- ^ Cohen; et al. (2000). "Renal xenografts from triple transgenic pigs are not hyperacutley rejected but cause coagulopathy in non-immunosuppressed baboons".
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suggested) (help)[full citation needed] - ^ Williams, Louise (December 27, 2013). "Just one bite". Sydney Morning Herald. Australia. p. 20.
- ^ "Bad bite: Doctors see surge of sudden meat allergies caused by ticks that are spreading in US" USNews, July 7, 2014
- ^ Hamsten, C; Starkhammar, M; Tran, T. A.; Johansson, M; Bengtsson, U; Ahlén, G; Sällberg, M; Grönlund, H; Van Hage, M (2013). "Identification of galactose-α-1,3-galactose in the gastrointestinal tract of the tick Ixodes ricinus; possible relationship with red meat allergy". Allergy. 68 (4): 549–52. doi:10.1111/all.12128. PMID 23414348.