Abstract
IgE-binding protein (ε{lunate}BP) is a β-galactoside-binding animal lectin identified by its affinity for IgE. We have reported that ε{lunate}BP also binds the mast cell high-affinity IgE receptor (Fcε{lunate}RI), via lectin-carbohydrate interaction. We have now studied the physiological significance of ε{lunate}BP-IgE-Fcε{lunate}RI interactions in mast cell activation using rat basophilic leukemia (RBL) cells as the model system. We report here that both unsensitized and IgE-sensitized RBL cells are activated upon exposure to ε{lunate}BP-coated surfaces. Activation of RBL cells by the lectin ε{lunate}BP can be significantly inhibited by appropriate saccharides. Exposure of RBL cells to ε{lunate}BP-coated surfaces caused cell spreading similar to that caused from adherence to fibronectin-coated surfaces. However, ε{lunate}BP by itself caused mediator release whereas fibronectin only potentiated antigen-mediated activation of RBL cells. Under appropriate conditions, ε{lunate}BP, therefore, has the potential to activate mast cells culminating in augmentation of an inflammatory response.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 1-12 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Cellular Immunology |
Volume | 156 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jun 1994 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Immunology
- Cell Biology