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Updated: Feb 27, 2026
Analyzing the Functions of Mast Cells In Vivo Using 'Mast Cell Knock-in' Mice
Published on: May 27, 2015
Immunoregulatory effect of mast cells influenced by microbes in neurodegenerative diseases
Francesco Girolamo1, Cristiana Coppola1, Domenico Ribatti2
1Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Italy.
Abstract:
When related to central nervous system (CNS) health and disease, brain mast cells (MCs) can be a source of either beneficial or deleterious signals acting on neural cells. We review the current state of knowledge about molecular interactions between MCs and glia in neurodegenerative diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Epilepsy. We also discuss the influence on MC actions evoked by the host microbiota, which has a profound effect on the host immune system, inducing important consequences in neurodegenerative disorders. Gut dysbiosis, reduced intestinal motility and increased intestinal permeability, that allow bacterial products to circulate and pass through the blood-brain barrier, are associated with neurodegenerative disease. There are differences between the microbiota of neurologic patients and healthy controls. Distinguishing between cause and effect is a challenging task, and the molecular mechanisms whereby remote gut microbiota can alter the brain have not been fully elucidated. Nevertheless, modulation of the microbiota and MC activation have been shown to promote neuroprotection. We review this new information contributing to a greater understanding of MC-microbiota-neural cells interactions modulating the brain, behavior and neurodegenerative processes.
Insights
Brain mast cells (MCs) interact with neural cells, influencing neurodegenerative diseases. Gut microbiota also impacts brain health, with potential for neuroprotection through modulation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Neurodegeneration
- Microbiome Research
Background:
- Brain mast cells (MCs) play a dual role in central nervous system (CNS) health and disease, releasing signals that can affect neural cells.
- Neuroinflammation involving mast cells and glial cells is implicated in various neurodegenerative conditions, including Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, ALS, Parkinson's disease, and Epilepsy.
- The gut microbiota profoundly influences the host immune system and has emerging connections to neurodegenerative disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular interactions between mast cells and glia in the context of neurodegenerative diseases.
- To discuss the influence of the gut microbiota on mast cell activity and its consequences for brain health.
- To explore the potential of modulating microbiota and mast cell activation for neuroprotection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on mast cell-glia interactions in neurodegeneration.
- Analysis of studies investigating the gut-brain axis and its role in neurological disorders.
- Examination of evidence linking gut dysbiosis to neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Mast cells and glia exhibit complex molecular interactions relevant to neurodegenerative diseases.
- Gut dysbiosis, increased intestinal permeability, and circulating bacterial products are associated with neurodegenerative conditions.
- Differences in microbiota composition are observed between neurological patients and healthy individuals.
- Modulation of gut microbiota and mast cell activation has demonstrated neuroprotective effects.
Conclusions:
- Mast cell-microbiota-neural cell interactions are critical modulators of brain function, behavior, and neurodegenerative processes.
- Understanding these complex interactions offers new avenues for therapeutic strategies targeting neurodegenerative diseases.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the molecular mechanisms of gut microbiota's influence on the brain.
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