IgE class-specific regulatory factor(s) and Fc epsilon receptors on lymphocytes

The IgE isotype-specific regulatory factor(s) of rodents as well as humans was shown to have an affinity to IgE molecules, suggesting that the factor(s) are Fc epsilon receptors (Fc epsilon R) on lymphocytes or include a fragment of Fc epsilon R. In order to test this possibility, the monoclonal anti-Fc epsilon R antibodies with different epitope specificities were prepared. FACS analysis showed that approximately 50 percent of B cells from normal individuals expressed Fc epsilon R and the augmentation of the expression was observed by the incubation with T cell factors and IgE. However, the Fc epsilon R expression on T cells was not detected even after induction. The result suggests that T cells may secrete Fc epsilon R but not express it on the surface or the IgE-binding factor(s) from T cells may not be antigenically cross-reactive with Fc epsilon R on B cells.