IgE
IgE or Immunoglobulin E is a type of antibody (or immunoglobulin (Ig) that has only been found in mammals. It plays an essential role in the body's immune system against allergens.
Function[edit | edit source]
IgE's main function is immunity to parasites such as parasitic worms like Schistosoma mansoni, Trichinella spiralis, and Fasciola hepatica. IgE may also be important during immune defense against certain protozoan parasites such as Plasmodium falciparum.
Structure[edit | edit source]
IgE has two identical heavy chains (ε chain) and two identical light chains. It has a molecular weight of approximately 190,000 Da and is composed of a single basic unit (H2L2) with two heavy chains and two light chains.
Role in disease[edit | edit source]
IgE is known to be elevated in various allergic diseases including asthma, atopic dermatitis and hay fever. IgE can also be elevated in patients with parasitic infections.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for conditions associated with high IgE levels include allergen immunotherapy which gradually exposes the body to increasing amounts of allergens to change the immune response.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
