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Updated: May 25, 2025

Investigating Mast Cell Secretory Granules; from Biosynthesis to Exocytosis
Published on: January 26, 2015
The Role of Endogenous Specialized Proresolving Mediators in Mast Cells and Their Involvement in Inflammation and
Nobuyuki Fukuishi1, Kentaro Takahama2, Hiromasa Kurosaki1
1Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kinjo Gakuin University, Nagoya 463-8521, Japan.
Abstract:
Many polyunsaturated fatty acids within cells exhibit diverse physiological functions. Particularly, arachidonic acid is the precursor of highly bioactive prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which are pro-inflammatory mediators. However, polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as arachidonic, docosahexaenoic, and eicosapentaenoic acids, can be metabolized into specialized proresolving mediators (SPMs), which have anti-inflammatory properties. Given that pro-inflammatory mediators and SPMs are produced via similar enzymatic pathways, SPMs can play a crucial role in mitigating excessive tissue damage induced by inflammation. Mast cells are immune cells that are widely distributed and strategically positioned at interfaces with the external environment, such as the skin and mucosa. As immune system sentinels, they respond to harmful pathogens and foreign substances. Upon activation, mast cells release various pro-inflammatory mediators, initiating an inflammatory response. Furthermore, these cells secrete factors that promote tissue repair and inhibit inflammation. This dual function positions mast cells as central regulators, balancing between the body's defense mechanisms and the need to minimize tissue injury. This review investigates the production of SPMs by mast cells and their subsequent effects on these cells. By elucidating the intricate relationship between mast cells and SPMs, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanism by which these cells regulate the delicate balance between tissue damage and repair at inflammatory sites, ultimately contributing to the resolution of inflammatory responses.
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