Human Immunoglobulin E specific for Bet v 1 (Bet v 1-specific IgE) (Bet v 1-specific IgE)

Human Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies specific for Bet v 1 epitopes are the primary mediators of birch pollen allergy, a condition affecting millions worldwide (Gould & Sutton, 2008, Nature Reviews Immunology). Bet v 1 is the major allergen of birch pollen, and in sensitized individuals, these specific IgE (sIgE) antibodies recognize and bind to various epitopes on the protein's surface (Neudecker et al., 2003, Journal of Biological Chemistry). Upon exposure to birch pollen, Bet v 1 cross-links these sIgE molecules bound to high-affinity FcεRI receptors on mast cells and basophils, triggering the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine (Valenta et al., 2010, Nature Reviews Immunology). This process leads to the clinical symptoms of allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and asthma. Furthermore, cross-reactivity between Bet v 1-specific IgE and homologous proteins in certain fruits can lead to oral allergy syndrome (Vieths et al., 2002, Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences). Therapeutic strategies targeting these antibodies include omalizumab, which reduces total IgE levels, and allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) like Itulazax, which induces 'blocking' IgG4 antibodies (ALK-Abelló, 2019). Experimental monoclonal antibody cocktails, such as REGN5713/5714/5715, are also being developed to specifically block the Bet v 1-IgE interaction (Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, 2020).

Other names

Anti-Bet v 1 IgEBirch pollen-specific IgEsIgE to Bet v 1Bet v 1-reactive IgE

Therapeutic agents target these antibodies by either sequestering free IgE to prevent its binding to high-affinity receptors on effector cells, or by inducing the production of allergen-specific IgG4 antibodies that competitively inhibit the binding of IgE to the Bet v 1 allergen.