Recent data from a number of groups have confirmed that IgE antibody may be produced, at least in part, locally within the nasal mucosa. Our data support the theory that B cell switching may also occur locally, although this remains to be confirmed. Local IgE may account for local disease expression in atopic subjects, although it is not clear which step is rate-limiting in this process. Our results highlight the importance of developing local strategies targeted against IgE for treatment of allergic diseases.
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