title: [High affinity receptor for immunoglobulin E (Fc epsilon R I)].
abstract: The high-affinity receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon R I) has a tetrameric structure composed of one alpha, one beta and two disulfide-linked gamma subunits (alpha beta gamma 2), of which alpha subunit binds IgE with high affinity and beta, gamma subunits transduce intracellular activation signals. We generated recombinant soluble form of the ectodomain of the human Fc epsilon R I alpha subunit (soluble alpha) and monoclonal antibodies again Fc epsilon R I alpha which inhibit IgE-binding. Soluble alpha works not only as a prophylactic agent for allergy but is also effective for on-going allergic reaction. In addition soluble alpha was elucidated to bind to membranous IgE on B cells and inhibit IgE synthesis. Fab fragments of the monoclonal Abs which inhibit IgE-binding were also very effective as anti-allergic agents and humanization of these Abs are underway.
authors.affiliation: Department of Immunology, Juntendo University School of Medicine.
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Ra
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000276:immunology; D015394:Molecular Structure; D017455:Receptors, IgE / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000276:immunology*
chemical_list: D017455:Receptors, IgE