THE HIGH-AFFINITY IgE RECEPTOR (FcεRI): From Physiology to Pathology

▪ Abstract The high affinity receptor for immunoglobulin E (designated FcεRI) is the member of the antigen (Ag) receptor superfamily responsible for linking pathogen- or allergen-specific IgEs with cellular immunologic effector functions. This review provides background information on FcεRI function combined with more detailed summaries of recent progress in understanding specific aspects of FcεRI biology and biochemistry. Topics covered include the coordination and function of the large multiprotein signaling complexes that are assembled when FcεRI and other Ag receptors are engaged, new information on human receptor structures and tissue distribution, and the role of the FcRβ chain in signaling and its potential contribution to atopic phenotypes.