Immunoglobulin E specific for cashew allergens (Cashew-specific IgE)

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) specific for cashew allergens refers to the subset of IgE antibodies that recognize proteins from the cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale), specifically the major allergens Ana o 1 (vicilin), Ana o 2 (legumin), and Ana o 3 (2S albumin) (WHO/IUIS Allergen Nomenclature Database). These antibodies play a central role in Type I hypersensitivity reactions by binding to high-affinity FcεRI receptors on mast cells and basophils (Gould & Sutton, Nature Reviews Immunology, 2008). When a sensitized individual is exposed to cashew allergens, the proteins cross-link the IgE molecules, triggering the degranulation of these effector cells and the release of mediators such as histamine, which can cause symptoms ranging from oral allergy syndrome to systemic anaphylaxis (NIAID). Therapeutic interventions targeting this pathway include the monoclonal antibody Omalizumab, which binds to the Fc region of IgE to prevent its attachment to receptors, and allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), which seeks to induce clinical desensitization (Casale et al., NEJM, 2024). Monitoring levels of cashew-specific IgE, particularly to the Ana o 3 component, is a critical diagnostic and prognostic tool in clinical practice for assessing the risk of severe reactions (Beyer et al., Allergy, 2015).

Other names

Cashew sIgEIgE to Anacardium occidentaleAnti-cashew IgEIgE to Ana o 1IgE to Ana o 2IgE to Ana o 3

Neutralization of circulating IgE and downregulation of high-affinity IgE receptors (FcεRI) on effector cells