Activation of hamster mast cells for IgE-mediated histamine release

The conditions for active sensitization of hamster peritoneal and pleural mast cells and IgE-induced histamine release as well as cell desensitization were defined. Immunization of hamsters with ovalbumin (5 micrograms) in Al/OH/3 gel (5 mg) with several boosters resulted in sensitization of peritoneal and pleural mast cells; in the presence of extracellular Ca++, pH of medium 7.2 and at 37 degrees C these cells released up to 70% of histamine on the challenge with specific antigen. Partial release was observed when the cells were challenged with antigen in the absence of extracellular calcium. The rate of release is high during the first seconds of activation and is complete at 1 min. 30 min preincubation of peritoneal and pleural mast cells in calcium-free conditions (in the presence of 4 mM EDTA) resulted in complete desensitization of cells to subsequent action of antigen in optimal conditions. The present experiments demonstrate, that hamster peritoneal and pleural mast cells can be a useful model system for in vitro studies of the mechanisms of IgE-induced cell activation.