May be involved in disease resistance. Strongly expressed in roots and in female and male strobili, and, to a lower extent, in cotyledons, leaves, stems and pollen grains. Strongly expressed in mature male and female strobili and in developing female strobili (PubMed:16203714). Present at lower levels in developing male strobili (PubMed:16203714). Induced by UV-B and salt stress. Causes an oral allergy syndrome (OAS) reaction in human and animals (PubMed:17441795, PubMed:22749702, PubMed:26433527). Binds to IgE and induces the release of histamine from leukocytes of allergic patients (PubMed:17441795). Binds to IgE from canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) sensitive dogs (PubMed:22749702). Belongs to the thaumatin family.