This immunoassay kit allows for the specific measurement of canine IgE concentrations in serum and plasma.

 

IgE immunoglobulin is a four chain molecule with a mol. Wt. Of  ~190 kDa. It is a unique class of immunoglobulin, which is important in the mediation of the allergic response. The mechanism of action involves an initial antigenic stimulation of immunocompetent B lymphocytes by specific antigen, a process that includes the lymphocytes to respond by producing specific antibodies of several classes. One class of IgE binds to receptors on the surface of mast cells. Upon further stimulation to specific allergens, these cells-bound IgE molecules bind via their Fab portion to the allergen. This combination triggers the mast cells and baspophiles to release, various vasoactive amines into blood and immediately surrounds tissue. These agents include an increase in vascular permeability, an efflux of blood components and the consequent symptom characteristics of an allergic reaction. Typical symptoms are inflammation and itching in the case of a bronchial reaction.

 

This assay employs the quantitative sandwich enzyme immunoassay technique. A monoclonal antibody specific for IgE has been pre-coated onto a microplate. Standards and samples are pipetted into the wells and any IgE present is bound by the immobilized antibody. An enzyme-linked monoclonal antibody specific for IgE is added to the wells. Following a wash to remove any unbound antibody-enzyme reagent, a substrate solution is added to the wells and color develops in proportion to the amount of IgE bound in the initial step. The color development is stopped and the intensity of the color is measured.