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Updated: Apr 9, 2026

Analyzing the Functions of Mast Cells In Vivo Using 'Mast Cell Knock-in' Mice
Published on: May 27, 2015
Mast cell production and response to IL-4 and IL-13
Jamie J A McLeod1, Bianca Baker1, John J Ryan1
1Department of Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA 23284, United States.
Abstract:
IL-4 was identified as the first cytokine to be produced by mast cells and is responsible for promoting mast cell IL-13 production. IL-4 and IL-13 play a prominent role in stimulating and maintaining the allergic response. As closely related genes, IL-4 and IL-13 share a common receptor subunit, IL-4Rα, necessary for signaling. Here we summarize the literature on mast cell activation associated with IL-4 and IL-13 production, including downstream signaling. We also describe the positive and negative roles each cytokine plays in mast cell immunity and detail the differences that exist between mouse and human mast cell responses to IL-4 and IL-13.
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