Anti-IgE therapy.

IgE has a central role in the initiation of allergic hypersensitivity reactions. Pioneered by the development of humanized monoclonal antibodies directed against IgE, anti-IgE therapy represents an original approach to the treatment of allergic disease and has demonstrated promise in preventing the symptoms of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergy. The primary mechanism of action of anti-IgE therapy is the reduction in serum levels of IgE and FcepsilonRI expression on mast cells and basophils.