Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 29, 2026
09:07
Analyzing the Functions of Mast Cells In Vivo Using 'Mast Cell Knock-in' Mice
Published on: May 27, 2015
Human mast cell carboxypeptidase. Selective localization to MCTC cells
A M Irani1, S M Goldstein, B U Wintroub
1Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Virginia, Richmond 23298.
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Researchers developed antibodies to human mast cell carboxypeptidase (HMC-CP). HMC-CP was found exclusively in tryptase-positive, chymase-positive mast cells, defining a specific mast cell subtype.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Human mast cells exhibit heterogeneity based on their mediator content.
- Identifying specific markers is crucial for understanding mast cell subsets and their functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To generate monoclonal antibodies against human mast cell carboxypeptidase (HMC-CP).
- To investigate the cellular localization of HMC-CP within human tissues and leukocytes.
- To further define the biochemical characteristics of human mast cell heterogeneity.
Main Methods:
- Production of two murine monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), CP1 and CP2, against purified HMC-CP.
- Double immunohistochemical labeling on human skin, lung, and gastrointestinal tissues using CP1, CP2, anti-tryptase, and anti-chymase mAbs.
- Immunohistochemical analysis of peripheral blood leukocytes.
Main Results:
- HMC-CP was selectively localized to a subset of human mast cells.
- HMC-CP was exclusively found in tryptase-positive, chymase-positive mast cells (MCTC).
- CP2, but not CP1, stained monocytes in peripheral blood leukocytes.
Conclusions:
- HMC-CP is a neutral protease specifically expressed in MCTC.
- The presence of HMC-CP contributes to the biochemical definition of human mast cell heterogeneity.
- These findings aid in distinguishing mast cell subtypes and understanding their roles.
