The dynamics of mast cell secretion mediated by IgE or polyamines

Mast cell secretion can be mediated not only by IgE but also by a number of secretagogues of various chemical structure. In the present study the dynamics of the mast cell secretory process induced by different polyamines and anti-IgE were compared using a combination of vital berberine binding (demonstrating intracellular granules that have released amines) and measurement of histamine and heparin release. The results suggest that the basic secretory pattern is the same no matter whether the secretion is induced by polymyxin B, polylysine, compound 48/80, or an IgE-anti-IgE reaction. Histamine can be released from intracellular granules which, according to previous results, may be reincorporated into the cytoplasm, but which are to a large extent expelled from the cell by exocytosis.