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Mast cell tryptase in dermal neurogenic inflammation
1Department of Physiology and Experimental Pathophysiology, University of Erlangen/Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
Summary
Dermal neurogenic inflammation does not activate mast cells. Studies measuring mast cell tryptase (MCT) and plasma protein extravasation (PPE) found no mast cell degranulation in the axon reflex flare area.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
Background:
- Mast cell activation is hypothesized to mediate dermal neurogenic inflammation.
- C fibre-derived neuropeptides are thought to activate mast cells, releasing histamine, which then activates C fibres.
- This study investigates the role of mast cells in this inflammatory process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the hypothesis that mast cell activation is involved in dermal neurogenic inflammation.
- To measure mast cell tryptase (MCT) within the axon reflex flare area.
- To quantify plasma extravasation and mediator release in vivo using human subjects.
Main Methods:
- Intracutaneous microdialysis fibres were inserted into the volar forearm.
- Axon reflexes were induced using histamine or compound 48/80 (a mast cell degranulator).
- Plasma protein extravasation (PPE), histamine, and MCT levels were measured at stimulation sites and within the axon reflex flare area.
Main Results:
- Mast cell degranulation induced significant plasma protein extravasation (PPE), histamine, and MCT release.
- Histamine administration increased PPE and slightly increased MCT levels.
- No evidence of mast cell activation (PPE, histamine, or MCT) was found within the axon reflex flare areas.
Conclusions:
- Dermal neurogenic inflammation does not lead to mast cell degranulation.
- The proposed mechanism of C fibre-mast cell-C fibre interaction in neurogenic inflammation is not supported by these findings.
- Mast cells are not activated in the axon reflex flare area during neurogenic inflammation.