Decoding IgE Fc receptors

Immunol Res. 2007;37(1):1-16. doi: 10.1007/BF02686092.

Abstract

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases by interacting with two membrane receptors: high-affinity FcepsilonRI and low-affinity FcepsilonRII (CD23). Allergeninduced IgE-occupied FcepsilonRI aggregation on the mast cell or basophil cell surface leads to the activation of intracellular signaling events and eventually the release of pre-formed and de novo synthesized inflammatory mediators. The role of FcepsilonRII in allergic diseases has been proposed to include regulation of IgE synthesis, enhanced histamine release from basophils, and a contribution to Ag-IgE complex presentation but the exact function of CD23 remains poorly understood. This review summarizes some new developments in IgE Fc-receptor studies with an emphasis on regulation of FcepsilonRI expression and signal transduction, including monomeric IgE, lipid raft segregation, and some recently identified negative regulators. A better understanding of signaling events following IgE FcR aggregation will shed new light on how allergy patients might be treated more safely and effectively.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology
  • Hypersensitivity / therapy
  • Immunoglobulin E / metabolism*
  • Receptors, Fc / genetics
  • Receptors, Fc / metabolism*
  • Receptors, IgE / genetics
  • Receptors, IgE / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction*

Substances

  • Receptors, Fc
  • Receptors, IgE
  • Immunoglobulin E