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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
09:07
Analyzing the Functions of Mast Cells In Vivo Using 'Mast Cell Knock-in' Mice
Published on: May 27, 2015
Rat mast cells communicate with fibroblasts via gap junction intercellular communications
Stephen R Au1, Katherine Au, Gregory C Saggers
1University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
Journal of Cellular Biochemistry
|October 26, 2006
Summary
Mast cells (MCs) communicate with fibroblasts via gap junctions, enhancing tissue contraction. This intercellular communication plays a role in wound repair and fibrosis processes.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Tissue Engineering
- Immunology
Background:
- Mast cells (MCs) typically modulate cellular activities via granule release.
- Gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) between MCs and fibroblasts enhances fibroblast-populated collagen lattice (FPCL) contraction.
- Previous studies showed limitations in MC-fibroblast GJIC with specific cell types and culture conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of GJIC between freshly isolated rat peritoneal MCs and fibroblasts in vitro and in vivo.
- To determine if MC-fibroblast GJIC influences tissue contraction and wound repair.
- To assess the transfer of GJIC communication markers between MCs and fibroblasts.
Main Methods:
- Co-culture of rat peritoneal MCs with fibroblasts in collagen lattices and monolayer cultures.
- In vivo studies using rat polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) sponge implants injected with MCs.
- Utilizing fluorescent dye transfer (Calcein AM and Dil) to visualize GJIC between MCs and fibroblasts.
- Employing a GJIC inhibitor to block intercellular communication.
Main Results:
- MC-fibroblast co-cultures in FPCLs demonstrated enhanced contraction rates and degrees.
- Fluorescent dye transfer confirmed GJIC between MCs and rat/human fibroblasts in monolayer cultures.
- In vivo, MCs injected into PVA implants established GJIC with host fibroblasts, evidenced by dye transfer.
- Inhibition of GJIC prevented dye transfer, confirming the mechanism.
Conclusions:
- GJIC between MCs and fibroblasts is a viable mechanism for intercellular communication.
- This communication pathway enhances tissue contraction, suggesting a role in wound repair.
- MC-fibroblast GJIC may modulate processes involved in wound healing and fibrosis.
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