Passive immunization with allergen-specific antibodies

Curr Top Microbiol Immunol. 2011:352:141-59. doi: 10.1007/82_2011_143.

Abstract

The induction of allergen-specific IgG antibodies has been identified as a major mechanism responsible for the reduction of allergic inflammation in allergic patients treated by allergen-specific immunotherapy. Several studies suggest that allergen-specific IgG antibodies induced by vaccination with allergens block mast cell and basophil degranulation, IgE-facilitated allergen presentation to T cells and IgE production. The availability of recombinant allergens and technologies for the production of recombinant human antibodies allows engineering of allergen-specific antibodies which can be used for passive immunization (i.e., therapy) and eventually for the prevention of allergy (i.e., prophylaxis). This chapter summarizes data supporting the possible use of allergen-specific antibodies for treatment and prophylaxis. Finally, concrete approaches for the treatment and prevention of allergy based on blocking antibodies are envisioned.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Allergens / immunology
  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Blocking* / administration & dosage
  • Antibodies, Blocking* / immunology
  • Antibodies, Blocking* / therapeutic use
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / immunology
  • Antibody Affinity
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity, Immediate / immunology
  • Hypersensitivity, Immediate / prevention & control*
  • Hypersensitivity, Immediate / therapy*
  • Immunization, Passive / methods*
  • Immunoglobulin E / immunology
  • Immunoglobulin G* / administration & dosage
  • Immunoglobulin G* / immunology
  • Immunoglobulin G* / therapeutic use
  • Immunotherapy / methods
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Recombinant Proteins / administration & dosage
  • Recombinant Proteins / immunology
  • Recombinant Proteins / therapeutic use
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology

Substances

  • Allergens
  • Antibodies, Blocking
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Immunoglobulin G
  • Recombinant Proteins
  • Immunoglobulin E