Functional expression in mast cells of chimeric receptors with antibody specificity

Chimeric genes composed of a single-chain Fv domain (scFv) of an antibody linked with receptor chains normally present in cells of hematopoietic origin were constructed. Such genes could be expressed as functional surface receptors in the RBL-2H3 (rat basophilic leukemia) mast cell line. The chimeric receptors exhibited binding properties of an antibody molecule and triggered degranulation of transfected mast cells on stimulation with antigen. Genetically engineered designer cells (e.g., T-lymphocytes, mast cells, or natural killer cells), equipped with built-in antibody-type recognition, can be now exploited for immunotherapy.