Allergy-associated FcRbeta is a molecular amplifier of IgE- and IgG-mediated in vivo responses

Immunity. 1998 Apr;8(4):517-29. doi: 10.1016/s1074-7613(00)80556-7.

Abstract

A role for the Fc receptor beta chain (FcRbeta) in the pathogenesis of allergy has been suggested by genetic studies. FcRbeta is a subunit common to the high-affinity IgE (FcepsilonRI) and low-affinity IgG (FcgammaRIII) receptors, both of which contribute to the initiation of allergic reactions. Current in vitro data suggest that FcRbeta can function as either a positive or negative regulator, leaving a mechanistic explanation for its association with the development of atopy unclear. To address this controversy, we have generated novel mouse models relevant to human Fc receptor function. Analysis of FcepsilonRI- and FcgammaRIII-dependent responses in these mice provides unequivocal genetic evidence that FcRbeta functions as an amplifier of early and late mast cell responses and, remarkably, in vivo anaphylactic responses.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anaphylaxis / etiology
  • Animals
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Cell Degranulation
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / etiology
  • Hypersensitivity / genetics
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology*
  • Immunoglobulin E / metabolism*
  • Immunoglobulin G / metabolism*
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Interleukin-6 / metabolism
  • Mast Cells / immunology
  • Mast Cells / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred BALB C
  • Mice, Knockout
  • Mice, Transgenic
  • Models, Biological
  • Phosphorylation
  • Receptors, IgE / chemistry
  • Receptors, IgE / genetics
  • Receptors, IgE / metabolism*
  • Receptors, IgG / chemistry
  • Receptors, IgG / genetics
  • Receptors, IgG / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin G
  • Interleukin-6
  • Receptors, IgE
  • Receptors, IgG
  • Immunoglobulin E
  • Calcium