IMMUNOTHERAPYAND IMMUNOMODULATORS (B VICKERY, SECTION EDITOR) The Cloning and Expression of Human Monoclonal Antibodies: Implications for

Abstract Allergic responses are dependent on the highly spe-cific effector functions of IgE antibodies. Conversely, antibod-ies that block the activity of IgE can mediate tolerance to allergen. Technologies that harness the unparalleled specific-ity of antibody responses have revolutionized the way that we diagnose and treat human disease. This area of research con-tinues to advance at a rapid pace and has had a significant impact on our understanding of allergic disease. This review will present an overview of humoral responses and provide an up-to-date summary of technologies used in the generation of human monoclonal antibodies. The impact that monoclonal antibodies have on allergic disease will be discussed, with a particular focus on allergen immunotherapy, which remains the only form of treatment that can modulate the underlying immune mechanisms and induce long-term clinical tolerance