Detection of human IgE antibody by a modified rat mast cell degranulation technique.

A rat mast cell degranulation (R.M.C.D.) technique is described in detail. This method is shown to detect specific antibodies to rye grass pollen and purified factors thereof (rye Group I antigen). The antibody detected belongs to the IgE immunoglobulin class as evidenced by specific degranulation when the rat mast cells are passively sensitized with the sensitive subject's serum and challenged with a monospecific rabbit antimyeloma IgE antiserum. No significant mast cell degranulation is observed with serum alone, antigen alone, or when anti-IgG, IgA or IgM are used in this system in an appropriate set of controlled experiments.