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Immunoglobulin-E-mediated reactivity to self antigens: a controversial issue
Sabine Zeller1, Andreas G Glaser, Monica Vilhelmsson
1Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, Davos, Switzerland.
International Archives of Allergy and Immunology
|September 8, 2007
Summary
Immunoglobulin E (IgE) can react to self-antigens, potentially worsening atopic diseases. This IgE reactivity to self-antigens correlates with disease severity, suggesting a role in chronic allergic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Allergy Research
- Autoimmunity
Background:
- Immunoglobulin E (IgE) reactivity to self-antigens is confirmed through in vitro methods like ELISA and Western blots.
- In vivo, IgE-binding self-antigens can trigger type I reactions and eczematous responses in patients with atopic eczema.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the mechanisms and clinical implications of IgE reactivity to self-antigens.
- To investigate the role of molecular mimicry and cross-reactivity in IgE-mediated autoimmune responses.
Main Methods:
- ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)
- Inhibition ELISA
- Western blot analyses
- T cell proliferation experiments
- In vivo studies in sensitized individuals and patients with atopic eczema.
Main Results:
- Reactions to self-antigens with homology to environmental allergens suggest molecular mimicry.
- Reactivity to self-antigens without homology remains unclear, possibly due to undetected environmental allergens.
- Cross-reactivity is incomplete, indicating differences in IgE antibody affinity or epitope presence.
Conclusions:
- Self-antigens may significantly exacerbate long-lasting atopic diseases.
- IgE-mediated autoreactivity's clinical role is supported by the correlation between IgE levels against self-antigens and disease severity.
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