Abstract
Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is a key mediator for the immune reaction in
airway mucosa and plays a vital role in nasal polyposis(NP). We review
the most recent evidence for the local IgE’s characteristics, the
modulation of its synthesis and function in NPs. The level of local IgE
is significantly elevated in polyps independently of IgE serum levels
and atopic status. Furthermore, local IgE is polyclonal and functional,
which is correlated with type 2 inflammation. IgE is produced by active
B cell and dependent on the classing switch recombination(CSR). In NPs,
this process is triggered by not only allergens but also microbial
colonization, especially the superantigen- Staphylococcus aureus. The
production of local IgE is modulated by lymphocytes, cytokines,
transcription factors and B cell intrinsic factor. Due to the central
role of IgE in NPs, it is regarded as an ideal target for therapy and
has been proved to be clinically successful. Based on this knowledge, we
believe that exploring the trigger and regulatory factors for the
activation of local B cells and CSR to IgE will provide more valuable
information for us to recognize the pathological mechanisms of local IgE
and offer the possible option for new therapeutic targets of NPs.