Neuro-allergology: Mast cell-nerve cross-talk

Mast cells (MCs) are derived from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow, and their maturation is regulated by the tissue environment, such as the skin, lung and gut, leading to host defense. Peripheral nerve fibers located in various tissues are involved in diverse physiological and pathological processes. Anatomical relationships between MCs and nerve fibers were reported to have been observed in various organs. Moreover, MCs are positive for a large number of receptors for classical neurotransmitters (e.g., acetylcholine and corticotropin-releasing hormone) and neuropeptides (e.g., substance P, calcitonin gene-related peptides and hemokinin), and MC's functions are regulated by those nerve-derived factors. Also, histamine and proteases produced and released by MCs modulate nerve fiber functions. This functional cross-talk between MCs and nerve fibers can play physiological and pathological roles. MCs are key effector cells of allergic inflammation, such as atopic dermatitis, airway inflammation and food allergy. Here, we summarize and discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying the functional and anatomical cross-talk between MCs and nerve fibers in allergic inflamed tissues.