Protein content and patient skin test sensitivity of the pollen ofArgemone mexicanaon exposure to SO₂

The allergenic potency of pollen has been reported to be increased when exposed to atmospheric pollutants like SO2, NO2, etc. The present investigation was undertaken to study the effect of SO2pollution on protein content as well as the allergenic potency of the pollen of Argemone mexicana L. The pollen of this plant was fumigated with SO2 at a concentration of 100 ppm for 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours and the soluble protein content and the electrophoretic profile were studied. SDS‐PAGE revealed the appearance of a new protein band with the simultaneous disappearance of two other bands. Protein content showed a gradual decrease with the increase in time of exposure to SO2. Skin‐prick test were performed with the antigens of the normal as well as SO2 fumigated pollen. The skin prick test sensitivity and percentage of patients showing positive response increased with time of fumigation.