The invention concerns bifunctional fusion molecules for the treatment of
IgE-mediated allergic conditions and Fc.epsilon.RI-mediated autoimmune
conditions. The invention provides a new therapeutic approach for the
treatment of both acute and late-phase allergic responses due to
ingestion, inhalation, cutaneous and parenteral exposure to allergens,
responses including asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, severe
food allergies, chronic urticaria and angioedema, as well as anaphylactic
reactions due to exposures such as bee stings or penicillin allergy. In
addition, the invention provides for a novel, safer and more efficacious
form of allergy vaccination.