THE REGULATION OF IGG4 - 1 AN IMMUNOASSAY TO DETECT BEE VENOM SPECIFIC IGG4 SUBCLASS LEVELS

Serum IgG consists of 4 subclasses designated IgG1-4. IgG subclasses h ave differing structures and different functions. The levels of antige n specific immunoglobulin in each of the subclasses is difficult to qu antitate accurately but may be of significant diagnostic and therapeut ic value. IgG4 constitutes approximately 4% of total IgG level in the serum. We describe an immunoassay which is highly sensitive and specif ic for IgG4 directed against bee venom. The assay can be performed in a routine diagnostic laboratory enhancing its value as a clinical tool . It is potentially useful in identifying patients who fail to respond to standard immunotherapy with bee venom. This immunoassay format can also be adapted to other antigens.