Immunoglobulin E specific for walnut allergens (Walnut sIgE)

IgE antibodies specific for walnut allergens are the primary immunological mediators of Type I hypersensitivity reactions to walnuts (Juglans regia). These antibodies are produced by B cells following sensitization to specific walnut proteins, most notably the 2S albumin Jug r 1 and the lipid transfer protein Jug r 3. These IgE molecules circulate in the blood and bind to high-affinity FcεRI receptors on the surface of mast cells and basophils. Upon re-exposure to walnut allergens, the allergens cross-link the surface-bound IgE, triggering the immediate release of inflammatory mediators like histamine and leukotrienes. This process leads to clinical symptoms ranging from mild oral allergy syndrome to life-threatening systemic anaphylaxis. Therapeutically, these antibodies are targeted by anti-IgE monoclonal antibodies like omalizumab, which sequester free IgE and prevent its attachment to effector cells, thereby increasing the threshold for allergic reactions. Measurement of these specific IgE levels is also the gold standard for component-resolved diagnosis and risk stratification in allergic patients.

Other names

Walnut-specific IgEsIgE to walnutAnti-walnut IgEIgE to Jug r 1IgE to Jug r 2IgE to Jug r 3IgE to Jug r 4IgE to Jug r 5IgE to Jug r 6IgE to Jug r 7IgE to Jug r 8

Binding to the Fc region of free IgE to prevent its interaction with the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI) on mast cells and basophils, thereby inhibiting the release of allergic mediators.