Immunology Interview Question:

Briefly describe immunoglobulin (Ig) E.

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1) It is a monomer having a molecular weight of about 200,000 Daltons and has a sedimentation coefficient of 8S.
2) Its half life is about 2 days
3) Its concentration in serum is very low i.e. 0.3 mg/ml.
4) It exhibits unique property such as heat labiality and affinity for the surface of tissue cells such as mast cells.
5) It does not pass the placental barrier.
6) It is chiefly produced in the linings of respiratory and intestinal tracks.
7) It is responsible for the anaphylactic type of hypersensitivity.
8) The physiological role of IgE appears to be protection against pathogens by mast cells degranulation and release of inflammatory mediators.
9) Interleukin fold enhances the secretion of IgE.
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