The effect of age on IgE production in rats.

Inbred BN-rats were immunized at different ages with a standardized amount of ovalbumin and a1(OH)3. The specific IgE antibody response and total serum IgE levels were significantly influenced by age. The IgE antibody response increased to a maximum in 2-month-old rats and decreased progressively at a more advanced age. Total serum IgE levels increased progressively from the age of 1 month to the age of 5 months and decreased again at the age of one year.