The high affinity receptor for immunoglobulin E (designated Fc epsilon RI) is the member of the antigen (Ag) receptor superfamily responsible for linking pathogen-or allergen-specific IgEs with cellular immunologic effector functions. This review provides background information on Fc epsilon RI function combined with more detailed summaries of recent progress in understanding specific aspects of Fc epsilon RI biology and biochemistry. Topics covered include the coordination and function of the large multiprotein signaling complexes that are assembled when Fc epsilon RI and other Ag receptors are engaged, new information on human receptor structures and tissue distribution, and the role of the FcR beta chain in signaling and its potential contribution to atopic phenotypes.