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Interaction between mast cells and glial cells: an in vitro study
M Shalit1, T Brenner, E Shohami
1Department of Medicine, Hadassah University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel.
Journal of Neuroimmunology
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Central nervous system (CNS) glial cells do not alter the phenotype or function of mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMC) in co-culture. These findings suggest glial cells do not influence mast cell behavior in the brain.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Cell Biology
- Connective Tissue Research
Background:
- Mast cells (MC) in the brain are near glial cells, suggesting a potential interaction.
- The phenotype of brain mast cells is not fully understood, with some suggesting a connective tissue origin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if glial cells influence the phenotype and function of mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMC).
- To assess the viability and functional capacity of BMMC when co-cultured with glial cells.
Main Methods:
- Co-culture of BMMC with glial cells for up to 21 days.
- Evaluation of BMMC parameters: number, morphology, histochemistry, and histamine content.
- Assessment of glial cell morphology and function throughout the co-culture period.
Main Results:
- BMMC successfully adhered, proliferated, and survived on glial cell monolayers.
- BMMC retained their phenotype and could be activated to release histamine.
- Glial cells maintained their morphology and function during co-culture.
Conclusions:
- Central nervous system (CNS) glial cells do not induce phenotypic changes in BMMC.
- Glial cells do not negatively impact BMMC viability or function in this in vitro model.
- The microenvironment provided by CNS glial cells does not alter mast cell characteristics.