Hypersensitivity Reactions: How the Immune System Can Overreact to Allergens

Allergy is an abnormal immune system reaction to a foreign substance, including pollen, dust, certain foods, animal dander, or metals that are not typically considered harmful by most individuals. When the body is exposed to an allergen, the immune response involves the production of specific antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE) that attach to the allergen. This triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause the symptoms associated with an allergic reaction. Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin, hives, and swelling are just a few examples of allergy symptoms that can be brought on by the immune system's production of IgE antibodies. In some cases, the reaction can be severe and even life-threatening, such as in anaphylaxis.
Overall, the process of generating IgE upon exposure to an allergen is a multifaceted and precise immune response that may give rise to hypersensitivity reactions in certain individuals.

 
How does the IgE be triggered?

Antigen-presenting cells (APCs), like dendritic cells, detect the allergen and present it to T-helper cells. The B-cells are then activated by these T-helper cells that differentiate into plasma cells generating excessive IgE specific to the particular allergen. These IgE antibodies bind to certain receptors on the surface of basophils and mast cells, two different types of white blood cells that are also implicated in the immunological response. Upon re-exposure to the same allergen, the allergen binds to the IgE antibodies on the surface of mast cells and basophils, causing these cells to release histamine and other inflammatory mediators. ^[1]
 



What can we do to manage our health?

Many research and surveys have found that allergies are more common than they used to be, with an estimated 20–30% of the world's population suffering from allergies. So, it is crucial to comprehend the precise allergens that cause allergic reactions to appropriately manage the situation. ^[2]
Here are the most commonly used tests include:

• Skin prick test
• Blood test
• Patch test

Yet, the blood test has gained popularity recently. Opting for a blood test as an allergy diagnostic has several advantages. It is non-invasive and not impacted by drugs, enabling testing of multiple allergens. Additionally, it poses less risk to patients with severe reactions and can be conducted remotely – making it an efficient option overall. ^{[3, 4]}
Recombinant proteins and antibodies offer benefits in the blood test.

• Improved accuracy
• Reduced cross-reactivity
• Increased sensitivity
• Cost-effectiveness
• Reproducibility

Croyez offers both antigen and monoclonal anti-human IgE antibody for developing allergy blood tests, with excellent stability and the ability to supply antigen-antibody pairs for different allergens. Croyez specializes in providing customers with purified recombinant proteins and anti-IgE antibodies at an affordable cost for various allergens. Our products are designed to provide a high level of purity and effectiveness, making them an excellent choice for customers seeking reliable and cost-effective solutions for developing allergy diagnostics tools.






Related Pages:

→ All Antibody Products
→ All Antigen Products
→ Find products based on specific allergen