Reactivity to IgE-dependent histamine-releasing factor is due to monomeric IgE.

Authors :: Budde IK
Aalbers M
Aalberse RC
van der Zee JS
Knol EF
Source :: Allergy [Allergy] 2000 Jul; Vol. 55 (7), pp. 653-7.
Publication Year :: 2000
Abstract: 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.<br />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.<br />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.<br />Conclusions: HRF reacts with monomeric IgE, and not (exclusively) with polymeric IgE.