[Treatment of allergic diseases with monoclonal anti-IgE antibody]

IgE-mediated mast cell and basophil activation initiates immediate and late-phase allergic responses, and plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases such as bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis. Thus, the blocking of the binding of IgE to the high affinity receptors for IgE (Fc epsilon RI) on mast cells and basophils may prevent dual responses, and improve allergic symptoms. A recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody (rhuMAb-E25) forms complexes with free IgE, blocks its binding to mast cells and basophils, and inhibits allergen-induced mediator release from both cells and attenuates immediate and late-phase reactions to inhaled allergens. In clinical trials, the therapy with rhuMAb-E25 was effective in patients with atopic asthma and allergic rhinitis and well tolerated. This antibody seems to be promising as a treatment for atopic asthma and allergic rhinitis.