immunoglobulin E

immunoglobulin E

n. Abbr. IgE

1. The class of antibodies that bind to mast cells and basophils and trigger them to release histamines and other substances that are responsible for allergic reactions. Immunoglobulin E antibodies are also thought to defend against parasitic worms.

2. An antibody of this class.

American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

immunoglobulin E - one of the five major classes of immunoglobulins; present primarily in the skin and mucous membranes IgE Ig, immune gamma globulin, immune globulin, immune serum globulin, immunoglobulin - a class of proteins produced in lymph tissue in vertebrates and that function as antibodies in the immune response reagin - an immunoglobulin E that is formed as an antibody against allergens (such as pollen); attaches to cell membranes causing the release of histamine and other substances responsible for the local inflammation characteristic of an allergy

Based on WordNet 3.0, Farlex clipart collection. © 2003-2012 Princeton University, Farlex Inc.

Translations

imunoglobulin E