IgE

IgE circulates at the lowest concentration of all immunoglobulin classes, yet it is the central driver of allergic disease and antiparasite immunity. Through its Fc region IgE binds the high-affinity Fc epsilon RI on mast cells and basophils with exceptional stability, so receptor occupancy persists for weeks and sensitizes these cells to specific allergens. Antigen-mediated cross-linking of bound IgE triggers degranulation, releasing histamine, leukotrienes, and cytokines that produce immediate hypersensitivity and, systemically, anaphylaxis. IgE also supports defense against helminths by activating eosinophils and mast cells. The anti-IgE antibody omalizumab, which blocks Fc epsilon RI binding, established IgE as a validated drug target in asthma and chronic urticaria.