The role of mast cells in inflammatory responses in the lung

Human lung mast cells (HLMC), by virtue of their anatomic localization and release of potent chemical mediators, are well suited to produce characteristic pathophysiological inflammatory reactions in the lung. Much has been learned about the nature of these cells over the past 10 years, following the development of techniques to disperse them from lung tissue and ultimately purify them to near homogeneity. Recent work focusing on the origin, ultrastructure, proliferation, differentiation, heterogeneity, biochemistry of release, mediators, and pharmacological control of HLMC secretion is reviewed. Current knowledge of HLMC involvement in asthma and interstitial lung diseases, characterized by fibrosis, is summarized with an emphasis on potential areas of therapeutic intervention.