Fc epsilon RII, also known as FcεRII, is a type of cell surface receptor involved in the immune response. It is a member of the Fc receptor family and is specifically expressed on certain immune cells, including basophils, mast cells, and eosinophils.
This receptor plays a crucial role in the recognition and binding of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. IgE antibodies are produced in response to allergens, parasites, and certain pathogens. These antibodies bind to FcεRII, triggering a cascade of immune responses that lead to the release of inflammatory mediators and the initiation of an allergic response.
The FcεRII receptor consists of multiple subunits, including alpha, beta, and gamma chains, which are encoded by different genes. Each subunit contributes to the ligand-binding domain and signal transduction properties of the receptor. The binding of IgE antibodies to the alpha subunit of FcεRII initiates a signal transduction pathway that activates downstream cellular responses.
The activation of FcεRII signaling can result in various biological effects, including inflammatory cytokine production, degranulation of immune cells, and the recruitment of other immune cells to the site of inflammation. Additionally, FcεRII has been implicated in the regulation of immune cell development, survival, and allergic diseases such as asthma and allergic rhinitis.
Understanding the function and regulation of FcεRII is of great importance in the field of immunology, as it provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying immune responses and allergic diseases.
