Intraspecific variations in pollen extracts of Ricinus communis (castor bean) prepared from different source materials

Abstract

Pollen of Ricinus communis, an important aeroallergen was collected from different stages of development of flower, different time intervals, different years and different places in India, to see variability, if any, in the protein content and protein profiles of the extracts. The protein content showed significant variation in the extracts from different sources. IEF and SDS - PAGE protein profiles from pollen antigens of mature buds and flowers showed almost similar pattern. However, appreciable variation was recorded in the protein pattern of pollen extracts from different years and places. It is therefore suggested to have a comprehensive quality control of pollen raw materials before processing for antigenic extracts.