Regulation of IgE synthesis in man.

It is clear that T cells play a role in the regulation of IgE synthesis. This is in part mediated via the secretion of IgE binding factors which home on the IgE B cells and deliver either enhancing signals prompting the B cell to differentiate into secreting more IgE antibody or suppressor signals which shut off antibody production. A balance between these two signals will determine the magnitude of the IgE antibody response. The presence of IgE suppressor factor in normal serum and the presence of IgE helper factors in serum and in supernatants of cell lines from individuals with high IgE will allow us to better understand the mechanism of IgE regulation and devise more rational strategies for treatment of allergic diseases. Initial encouraging clinical results have been obtained with administration of normal serum and suppression of IgE synthesis. With the advent of hybridoma techniques and DNA recombinant technology, one should be able to isolate these factors in sufficient quantity, and test them safely in clinical situations.