A defensive role of IgE mediated reaction in the nose

Abstract

Summary Immunoglobulins of different classes are known to play a role in humoral defense mechanism, and Immunoglobulin E, without any actual evidence, is also expected to perform the same function. From the point of the defensive role the present study was undertaken in nasal allergy by observing the way in which powdered carbon particles previously insufflated in the nasal cavities are rapidly removed by nasal provocation with a causative allergen extract. The ratio of disappearance time of the carbon powder after/before provocation decreased markedly in good proportion with the intensity of the provocative reaction. Both sneezing and nasal secretion provocated contributed to this removal of the powder. When the nasal cavity on one side only was provocated, the non-provoked side also showed a rapid disappearance of the powder. In conclusion, Immunoglobulin E serves as a gate keeper by removing allergens from the surface of the nasal mucous membrane and by inhibiting the penetration of allergens into the nasal mucous membrane.