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Updated: Feb 4, 2026
09:07
Analyzing the Functions of Mast Cells In Vivo Using 'Mast Cell Knock-in' Mice
Published on: May 27, 2015
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Kit-independent mast cell adhesion mediated by Notch
Akihiko Murata1, Mari Hikosaka2, Miya Yoshino1
1Division of Immunology, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, School of Life Science, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago, Tottori, Japan.
International Immunology
|October 10, 2018
Summary
Notch family members offer a novel Kit-independent mechanism for mast cell (MC) adhesion. This pathway supports MC interaction with their microenvironment, complementing Kit
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Mast cells (MCs) rely on Kit/CD117 for cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion.
- The role of other adhesion molecules in MC adhesion remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate novel Kit-independent adhesion mechanisms in mouse cultured MCs.
- To elucidate the role of Notch family members in MC adhesion.
Main Methods:
- Utilized stromal cells engineered with Notch ligand genes.
- Analyzed MC adhesion, including tethering and spreading, on these engineered cells.
- Investigated downstream signaling pathways, including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases and mitogen-activated protein kinases.
Main Results:
- Notch ligand engagement rendered Kit and its signaling dispensable for MC adhesion.
- Notch-mediated MC spreading activated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases and mitogen-activated protein kinases.
- While Kit supports both adhesion and survival, Notch exclusively supports adhesion.
Conclusions:
- Notch family members provide a distinct, Kit-independent adhesion pathway for MCs.
- Notch acts as a specialized adhesion molecule, crucial for MC interaction with their microenvironment.
- Notch signaling effectively replaces Kit's adhesive function in MCs.
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