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Updated: Apr 13, 2026
Analyzing the Functions of Mast Cells In Vivo Using 'Mast Cell Knock-in' Mice
Published on: May 27, 2015
Mast cells, brain inflammation and autism
Theoharis C Theoharides1, Julia M Stewart2, Smaro Panagiotidou2
1Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery Laboratory, Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology, Tufts University School of Medicine, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
Brain inflammation involving mast cells, corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), and neurotensin (NT) may contribute to neuropsychiatric disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Targeting these pathways may offer new therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Brain inflammation is increasingly implicated in neuropsychiatric disease pathogenesis.
- Mast cells (MCs) are strategically located near neurons and microglia in the brain.
- Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and neurotensin (NT) can activate brain MCs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of mast cells, CRF, and NT in brain inflammation and neuropsychiatric disorders.
- To investigate the mechanisms by which CRF and NT stimulate MCs and affect the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
- To examine the potential involvement of these factors in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).
Main Methods:
- Review of existing evidence on mast cell activation, CRF, NT, and BBB disruption.
- Analysis of studies linking CRF and NT levels to ASDs.
- Consideration of pilot trial data for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory treatments.
Main Results:
- CRF and NT synergistically stimulate brain MCs, releasing mediators that disrupt the BBB and cause inflammation.
- CRF and NT can induce each other's receptors on MCs, creating autocrine/paracrine loops.
- Elevated CRF and NT levels are observed in children with ASDs, suggesting their involvement.
Conclusions:
- Brain MCs, activated by CRF and NT, may play a role in the pathogenesis of conditions like "brain fog," headaches, and ASDs, particularly under stress.
- While no definitive treatments exist for core ASD symptoms, preliminary studies show benefits from natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents.
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