Gene FCER1A
Back to Curriculum
Also known as
FCE1A, FceRI, high affinity IgE receptor alpha subunitOverview
FCER1A (Fc Fragment Of IgE Receptor Ia) encodes the alpha subunit of the high-affinity IgE receptor (FceRI) found on mast cells and basophils. This receptor binds IgE antibodies with extremely high affinity and is the key mediator of allergic responses, triggering degranulation and histamine release when cross-linked by allergens.Variants in FCER1A have been associated with serum IgE levels, allergic diseases, and response to allergens. The receptor plays a central role in type I hypersensitivity reactions including allergic rhinitis, asthma, food allergies, and anaphylaxis. Understanding genetic variation in this pathway is important for understanding individual susceptibility to allergic diseases.
Understanding your FCER1A genetic status provides insights into the allergic response machinery and may help explain individual differences in allergic disease severity. This gene is relevant for anyone interested in understanding their predisposition to allergies and histamine-related conditions.