IMPLICATIONS OF ZOONOTIC PARASITE, Anisakis spp. TO SEAFOOD SAFETY: A REVIEW
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46754/umtjur.2026.04.008Keywords:
Anisakis spp., allergens, anisakiasis, fish, parasites, profiling.Abstract
Anisakis spp. are marine parasitic nematodes commonly found in seafood, particularly in coastal fish that can cause anisakiasis and allergic reactions in humans. Despite increasing clinical reports, the allergenic profiles of different Anisakis species and their hybrids remain incompletely characterised. This review aims to consolidate and analyse current knowledge on the identification, classification, and molecular characteristics of allergens present in Anisakis simplex s.s., Anisakis pegreffii, and their hybrid haplotypes to better understand their roles in allergic pathogenesis. A systematic bibliographic search was conducted using scientific databases including PubMed Central, ScienceDirect, Springer Nature Link, Wiley Online Library, and Google Scholar. A total of 89 relevant peer-reviewed articles were selected based on inclusion criteria focusing on allergen identification, immunological reactivity, and diagnostic development. Data were extracted and analysed based on allergen type, molecular properties, and relevance to clinical allergy. 14 allergens were identified across the studied Anisakis species, with Ani s 1, Ani s 7, and Ani s 12 consistently reported as major allergens due to their strong IgE-binding properties and resistance to heat and digestion. Minor allergens, including Ani s 4, Ani s 5, Ani s 6, Ani s 8, and Ani s 11 were also noted, showing variable immunogenicity and potential cross-reactivity with other nematodes and invertebrate allergens. Current diagnostic limitations were observed in serological testing and allergen standardisation. The review highlights the emerging role of advanced techniques such as Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), immunoblotting, and transcriptomic profiling in improving allergen detection and characterisation. This review emphasises the need for integrated molecular and immunological approaches to improve allergen identification in Anisakis spp. The findings can inform clinical diagnosis, therapeutic development, and seafood safety regulations. Better understanding of the allergen profiles supports targeted public health interventions and risk assessments for anisakiasis and Anisakis-related allergies.
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