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Updated: Feb 5, 2026
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Analyzing the Functions of Mast Cells In Vivo Using 'Mast Cell Knock-in' Mice
Published on: May 27, 2015
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[ROLE OF MAST CELLS IN BRONCHIAL CONTRACTION IN NONALLERGIC OBSTRUCTIVE LUNG PATHOLOGY]
Rossiiskii Fiziologicheskii Zhurnal Imeni I.M. Sechenova
|September 11, 2018
Summary
Preventing mast cell degranulation with sodium cromoglycate stabilized bronchial smooth muscle function in a rat model of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This highlights mast cells
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Cellular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) involves bronchial smooth muscle hyperreactivity.
- Mast cells are implicated in inflammatory airway diseases.
- Nitrogen dioxide exposure is a model for inducing COPD-like changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of mast cells in bronchial smooth muscle contractile activity in a rat model of COPD.
- To evaluate the effect of mast cell stabilization on airway hyperresponsiveness.
Main Methods:
- Rats were exposed to intermittent nitrogen dioxide for 60 days to induce COPD.
- One group received daily sodium cromoglycate to stabilize mast cells.
- Isometric contractions of isolated bronchial preparations were measured.
Main Results:
- Nitrogen dioxide exposure led to bronchial smooth muscle hyperactivity.
- Sodium cromoglycate treatment prevented the development of this hyperactivity.
- Inhibition of mast cell degranulation and histamine release was observed.
Conclusions:
- Mast cell degranulation and subsequent histamine release contribute to bronchial smooth muscle hyperactivity in COPD.
- Stabilizing mast cell membranes with sodium cromoglycate mitigates airway hyperresponsiveness.
- Adenosine receptor activation on mast cells may initiate this pathway.
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