An integrated framework using high-dimensional mass cytometry and fluorescent flow cytometry identifies discrete B cell subsets in patients with red meat allergy.

Background: B cells play a critical role in the development and maintenance of food allergy by producing allergen-specific IgE. Despite the importance of B cells in IgE-mediated food allergy, the identity of sIgE-producing human B cells and how IgE is regulated are poorly understood.

Objective: To identify the immunophenotypes of circulating B cells associated with the production of galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose-specific IgE production in patients with red meat allergy.

Flow cytometry imaging identifies rare T(H)2 cells expressing thymic stromal lymphopoietin receptor in a "proallergic" milieu.

Background: Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is expressed at sites of allergic inflammation, including eczematous skin. This cytokine has been reported to exert its T(H)2-inducing properties through dendritic cells. Expression of TSLP receptor on the surface of activated T(H)2 cells could amplify T(H)2 responses at inflamed sites through the direct actions of TSLP.