ISSN:
1398-9995
Source:
Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Background: IgE-dependent histamine-releasing factor (HRF) can distinguish between IgE+ and IgE−. In contrast to IgE−, IgE+ sensitizes basophils to release histamine in response to HRF. But we do not know what particular feature distinguishes IgE+ from IgE−. The objective was to investigate the hypothesis that IgE+ is polymeric IgE. Methods: IgE+plasma was separated by size-exclusion chromatography. The basophil-sensitizing capacity of the fractions was analyzed in response to HRF produced by mononuclear cells. Results: We showed that monomeric IgE sensitized basophils to release histamine in response to HRF and to house-dust mite, whereas no enhanced reactivity was found in the fractions containing polymeric IgE. Conclusions: HRF reacts with monomeric IgE, and not (exclusively) with polymeric IgE.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1034/j.1398-9995.2000.00573.x
