Amb a 1-specific B-cell receptor and antibody (Amb a 1-specific BCR/Ab)

Amb a 1-specific B-cell receptors (BCRs) and antibodies are the central components of the adaptive immune response to the major allergen of short ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia). Amb a 1 is a 38 kDa pectate lyase that accounts for the majority of the allergenic activity in ragweed pollen (UniProt: P27759). In allergic individuals, B cells expressing Amb a 1-specific BCRs produce IgE, which sensitizes mast cells and basophils by binding to high-affinity FcεRI receptors (PubMed: 25264307). Upon re-exposure, Amb a 1 cross-links these IgE molecules, triggering the release of inflammatory mediators that cause allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms (PubMed: 31100500). Therapeutic interventions target this pathway by either neutralizing the allergen with monoclonal antibodies, such as the REGN5713/5714/5715 cocktail, or by using allergen immunotherapy to induce Amb a 1-specific IgG4 blocking antibodies that compete with IgE for allergen binding (PubMed: 33108310, PubMed: 28830463).

Other names

Amb a 1-specific IgEAmb a 1-specific IgGRagweed allergen-specific B-cell receptorShort ragweed major allergen-specific antibodyAntigen E-specific antibody

Neutralization of the Amb a 1 allergen to prevent IgE cross-linking on mast cells and basophils, sequestration of circulating IgE, and induction of allergen-specific IgG4 blocking antibodies through immunotherapy (PubMed: 33108310, PubMed: 28830463).