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Updated: Mar 24, 2026
Analyzing the Functions of Mast Cells In Vivo Using 'Mast Cell Knock-in' Mice
Published on: May 27, 2015
Emerging concepts: mast cell involvement in allergic diseases.
Brian D Modena1, Kristen Dazy2, Andrew A White2
1Division of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, Scripps Clinic, San Diego, Calif; Scripps Translational Science Institute, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, Calif.
Mast cells rapidly release mediators causing acute allergy symptoms. They also contribute to chronic inflammation and shape immune responses, even without degranulating.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Allergology
Background:
- Mast cells rapidly release preformed mediators (histamine, heparin, serotonin) during overt degranulation.
- These mediators cause acute symptoms in allergic conditions like asthma and urticaria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles of mast cells in allergic diseases.
- To explore both traditional and novel contributions of mast cells in pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on mast cell functions in allergic conditions.
- Discussion of mast cell involvement in respiratory and skin allergies.
Main Results:
- Mast cells contribute to acute allergic reactions via degranulation.
- Mast cells also play roles in chronic inflammation and modulate immune cell activity, independent of degranulation.
Conclusions:
- Mast cells are key players in allergic diseases, with roles extending beyond acute responses.
- Emerging research highlights non-degranulatory functions and broader immune-modulatory impacts of mast cells.
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