Immunologic Factor
immunoglobulin E
im·mu·no·glob·u·lin e [ im-yuh-noh-glob-yuh-lin, ih-myoo- ee ]
Subclass of:
Immunoglobulin Isotypes
Definitions related to immunoglobulin e:
  • (ige) An immunoglobulin isotype (subclass). This isotype has the unique ability to bind with high affinity to IgE receptors (FceRI) on mast cells and basophils and induce degranulation and cytokine production by these cells when they are crosslinked by antigen. In addition to a central role in atopy and allergic responses, it has been speculated that IgE-mediated mast cell degranulation, by its release of mediators that increase vascular permeability, has an important role in the initiation of immune response in general.
    NCI Thesaurus
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • An immunoglobulin associated with MAST CELLS. Overexpression has been associated with allergic hypersensitivity (HYPERSENSITIVITY, IMMEDIATE).
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2021
  • Found on the surface membrane of basophils and mast cells in all individuals; may play a role in active immunity to helminthic parasites but in developed countries it is more commonly associated with immediate hypersensitivity diseases such as asthma and hay fever.
    CRISP Thesaurus
    National Institutes of Health, 2006
  • The substance responsible for most allergic reactions.
    Harvard Dictionary of Health Terms
    Harvard Medical Publishing, 2011
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.