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Are basophil histamine release and high affinity IgE receptor expression involved in asymptomatic skin sensitization?
Author(s) -
Jensen B. M.,
Assing K.,
Hummelshoj L.,
Glue C.,
Skov P. S.,
Poulsen L. K.
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
allergy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.363
H-Index - 173
eISSN - 1398-9995
pISSN - 0105-4538
DOI - 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2006.00991.x
Subject(s) - basophil , basophil activation , immunoglobulin e , immunology , histamine , sensitization , allergy , asymptomatic , receptor , medicine , antibody , flow cytometry , chemistry
Background: Immunoglobulin (Ig)E‐sensitized persons with positive skin prick test, but no allergy symptoms, are classified as being asymptomatic skin sensitized (AS). The allergic type 1 disease is dependant on IgE binding to the high affinity IgE‐receptor (Fc ɛ RI) expressed on basophils and mast cells. However, a relationship between the AS status and Fc ɛ RI has not been investigated. We aimed to characterize basophils from AS by looking at histamine release (HR) (sensitivity and reactivity) and the Fc ɛ RI molecule, and compare it with nonatopic (NA) or allergic (A) persons. Methods: Blood was obtained from NA ( n = 14), grass and/or birch A persons ( n = 17) and mono‐sensitized grass or birch pollen AS ( n = 12). The basophil sensitivity and reactivity were examined by anti‐IgE triggered HR. Surface expression of Fc ɛ RI and IgE were measured by flow cytometry, Fc ɛ RI α protein was identified using a radioimmunoassay and Western blot. mRNA coding for the classic Fc ɛ RI β ‐chain and the truncated form (Fc ɛ RI β T ) were determined by real‐time PCR. Results: The AS group was less reactive than NA or A persons when triggered by anti‐IgE and had a significant higher number of nonresponders. However, there was no difference in sensitivity among the three groups and furthermore; the groups did not vary in Fc ɛ RI‐ and IgE‐surface expression, Fc ɛ RI α ‐protein level or β / β T ratio. Conclusion: Basophils from AS persons are less reactive and include more nonresponders than basophils from NA and A persons, but do not differ regarding the Fc ɛ RI molecule.