Allergen-specific B-cell receptor and antibody (BCR/Ab)

Allergen-specific B-cell receptors (BCRs) and their secreted antibody counterparts are central components of the adaptive immune response to tree pollen allergens, such as those from birch (Bet v 1), alder, and hazel (Source: PubMed, PMID: 30639051). In sensitized individuals, B cells produce allergen-specific IgE antibodies that bind to high-affinity receptors on mast cells and basophils, leading to the release of inflammatory mediators upon subsequent allergen exposure (Source: NIH, StatPearls). These receptors and antibodies serve as critical therapeutic targets for treating allergic rhinitis and asthma. Therapeutic strategies include allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), which aims to redirect the B-cell response toward the production of protective IgG4 blocking antibodies (Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology). Monoclonal antibodies like omalizumab also target this pathway by neutralizing circulating IgE to prevent the allergic cascade (Source: PubChem). Understanding the fine specificity of these BCRs for tree pollen epitopes is essential for developing precision vaccines and biologics that can induce long-term immune tolerance (Source: Wikipedia, "Allergen immunotherapy").

Other names

Tree pollen-specific immunoglobulinAllergen-specific BCRAllergen-specific IgEAllergen-specific IgG4Birch pollen-specific antibodyBet v 1-specific antibody

Neutralization of circulating IgE to prevent binding to FcεRI on mast cells and basophils; induction of allergen-specific IgG4 "blocking antibodies" that compete with IgE for allergen binding; and modulation of B-cell signaling to promote immune tolerance.