What specific driver of inflammation does Omalizumab (Xolair) primarily target?
Answer
IgE antibodies
Omalizumab, known by the brand name Xolair, is categorized as an injectable biologic therapy reserved for severe, treatment-refractory asthma cases. Its highly specialized function is to interfere with a specific biological pathway implicated in allergic asthma pathogenesis. Specifically, Omalizumab targets and binds to IgE antibodies circulating in the bloodstream, thereby neutralizing their ability to trigger the downstream cascade of allergic and inflammatory responses that contribute to persistent, severe asthma symptoms. This targeted intervention is distinct from the broader anti-inflammatory actions of inhaled steroids or the effects of other biologics focused on eosinophils.
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