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The Mast Cell-Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Interplay at the Host-Microbe Interface
Claudio Costantini1, Giorgia Renga1, Vasilis Oikonomou1
1Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia 06132, Italy.
Mediators of Inflammation
|December 5, 2018
Summary
The human microbiome significantly influences mast cell functions, impacting host defense and tissue balance. Understanding these interactions, particularly the role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, is key to preventing disease.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Mast cells are critical immune responders to environmental stimuli.
- Mast cell function is modulated by their surrounding microenvironment.
- The host microbiome plays a key role in shaping mast cell differentiation and effector functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current knowledge on how microorganisms regulate mast cell physiology.
- To discuss pathological consequences arising from dysregulated host-microbe interactions.
- To highlight the role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in mast cell adaptation.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on mast cell-microbiome interactions.
- Analysis of mechanisms controlling mast cell survival, recruitment, maturation, and activity.
- Discussion of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor's function in host-microbe signaling.
Main Results:
- Microorganisms critically regulate mast cell behavior, influencing host protection and homeostasis.
- Deviations in mast cell regulation by the microbiome can lead to pathological conditions.
- The aryl hydrocarbon receptor is a key mediator in sensing environmental cues at the host-microbe interface.
Conclusions:
- The microbiome is a crucial factor in determining mast cell effector functions.
- Dysregulation of mast cell-microbiome interactions has significant health implications.
- Targeting the aryl hydrocarbon receptor pathway may offer therapeutic strategies for immune-related disorders.
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