Jewelry for August 2018

The molecule in August is the dust mite allergen Der p 5.

The jewelry shows the three-dimensional structure of Der p 5. Der p 5 is a protein from the dust mite, Dermatophagoides pteronissinus, and can cause an allergic reaction such as sneezing and runny nose.

Dust mites have eight legs and are close relatives of ticks and spiders. They are very small, measure only about one-quarter to one-third of a millimeter. In most homes, such items as bedding, upholstered furniture and carpeting provide an ideal environment for dust mites. Dust mites eat skin cells shed by people, and they thrive in warm, humid environments. A practical way to control dust mites and their allergens is to maintain a low humidity and a room temperature of around 20°C.