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Isolation of Functional Cardiac Immune Cells
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Published on: December 5, 2011

Human heart mast cells in anaphylaxis and cardiovascular disease

G Marone1, V Patella, G de Crescenzo

  • 1Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, University of Naples Federico II, Italy.

International Archives of Allergy and Immunology
|May 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Human heart mast cells (HHMCs) were isolated and studied in vitro. These cells release histamine in response to C5a and may play a role in cardiovascular diseases and allergic reactions.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cardiovascular Biology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Mast cells are key players in allergic reactions and inflammation.
  • Human heart mast cells (HHMCs) have not been extensively studied in vitro.
  • Understanding HHMCs is crucial for investigating cardiovascular diseases and anaphylaxis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To isolate, partially purify, and characterize human heart mast cells (HHMCs) in vitro.
  • To investigate the release of mediators from HHMCs.
  • To explore the potential role of HHMCs in cardiovascular pathology and allergic responses.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and partial purification of human heart mast cells (HHMCs).
  • In vitro studies on mediator release stimulated by C5a, substance P, and fMLP.
  • Analysis of arachidonic acid metabolism via cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase pathways.
  • Measurement of histamine and tryptase levels.

Main Results:

  • HHMCs were successfully isolated and studied in vitro.
  • Histamine levels in HHMCs are comparable to lung and skin mast cells.
  • Tryptase levels are lower than skin mast cells but higher than lung mast cells.
  • Complement C5a induced rapid histamine release, while substance P and fMLP did not.
  • IgE receptor cross-linking activated both cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase pathways in HHMCs.

Conclusions:

  • HHMCs possess distinct characteristics compared to mast cells from other tissues.
  • HHMCs release vasoactive mediators, suggesting a role in cardiovascular diseases.
  • HHMCs may contribute to human anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions.

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