B-cell receptor specific for Artemisia annua allergens (Art an-specific BCR)

Artemisia annua–specific B-cell receptors (BCRs) are membrane-bound immunoglobulins expressed on the surface of B lymphocytes that specifically recognize and bind to antigens from the Artemisia annua (Sweet Wormwood) plant, most notably the major allergen Art an 1 (Gao et al., 2022). These receptors play a pivotal role in the development of Type I hypersensitivity, particularly seasonal allergic rhinitis and asthma, which are highly prevalent in regions where Artemisia pollen is a dominant aeroallergen (PubMed, PMID: 31433014). When these BCRs encounter their cognate allergen, they trigger intracellular signaling cascades that lead to B-cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation into plasma cells that secrete allergen-specific IgE antibodies (Janeway et al., 2001). These IgE antibodies subsequently sensitize mast cells and basophils, leading to the release of inflammatory mediators upon re-exposure to the pollen. In a therapeutic context, these specific BCRs and the B cells expressing them are the primary focus of allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT). ASIT aims to reprogram the immune system by inducing desensitization and promoting the production of blocking IgG4 antibodies and regulatory B cells, thereby mitigating the allergic inflammatory response (Akdis & Akdis, 2014).

Other names

Artemisia annua-specific B-cell receptorArt an 1-specific B-cell receptorSweet wormwood pollen-specific B-cell receptorArtemisia-specific BCR

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) targets these receptors by delivering controlled doses of Artemisia allergens to induce immunological tolerance, which promotes a class-switch from IgE to protective IgG4 production and increases the activity of regulatory B cells (Akdis & Akdis, 2014).