Ultrasonic-combined pH-shifting enhances functional properties and reduces allergenicity of ginkgo seed glycoprotein.

Ultrasonic-combined pH-shifting (USCPS) is an effective strategy for reducing the allergenicity of food glycoproteins. The N-glycosylation of ginkgo seed glycoprotein isolate (GPI) allergen is closely linked to its allergenicity. However, the effect of USCPS on the allergenicity and N-glycosylation level of GPI remains unclear. In this study, the allergenicity of GPI and its USCPS-treated product (GPI-12-UPPI) were evaluated, and their N-glycans were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. USCPS significantly reduced allergenicity of GPI. Ten N-glycans were identified in GPI, predominantly MMX and MMXF (84.38% combined), while none were detected in GPI-12-UPPI. Molecular docking results further revealed that MMX and MMXF may bind to FcγRIIB, interfering with IgG's immune regulatory function. In summary, the decreased allergenicity of GPI after USCPS treatment may be associated with its N-glycosylation level, particularly in fucose and xylose residues. These findings provide a theoretical basis for research on ginkgo allergy mechanisms and development of low-allergenicity ginkgo foods.