CD23-mediated IgE transport across human intestinal epithelium: inhibition by blocking sites of translation or binding.

Background & Aims: In previous studies in rodent models of food allergy, we identified that sensitization induces expression of CD23 on intestinal epithelial cells and results in enhanced IgE-dependent transepithelial antigen uptake; further studies in CD23-/- mice provided evidence that CD23 is involved in protected transport of antigen into the body. Little information exists in humans on receptor-mediated immunoglobulin (Ig)E transport across epithelia. The present study was designed to examine expression of CD23 by human epithelial cells, determine its isoform and regulation by interleukin (IL) 4, and identify the role of CD23 in transepithelial IgE transport.