IgE (immunoglobulin E)
Chapter: 2
IgE is the immunoglobulin class that is associated with type I (immediate) hypersensitivity reactions (allergy, asthma, and anaphylaxis). This class of immunoglobulin binds to and "sensitizes" mast cells and basophils. Thus primed, when they encounter the relevant antigen, these cells are triggered to degranulate, thereby releasing proinflammatory mediators by degranulating.