Systemic anaphylaxis in mast-cell-deficient mice of W/Wv and Sl/Sld genotypes

Active systemic anaphylaxis was induced in mast-cell-deficient mice of W/Wv and Sl/Sld genotypes. The mast-cell-deficient mice were successfully sensitized either by an intraperitoneal injection of chicken gamma-globulin (C gamma G) mixed with adjuvant, alum and saline extract of Bordetella pertussis, or by an intravenous injection of C gamma G alone. Sensitized mice showed signs of systemic anaphylaxis and died after one or more intravenous challenge injections of C gamma G. These studies show that active systemic anaphylaxis can occur in mast-cell-deficient mice and suggest that cells other than mast cells may release adequate mediators to support systemic anaphylaxis.