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Effect of the c-kit Ligand on Mediator Release by Human Lung Mast Cells

Stephan C Bischoff, Clemens A Dahinden

    International Archives of Allergy and Immunology
    |June 25, 2021
    PubMed

    Insights

    The c-kit ligand (KL) triggers human mast cells (MC) after culture, enhancing IgE-dependent responses. This cytokine may regulate mast cell-associated diseases like asthma.

    Area of Science:

    • Immunology
    • Cell Biology

    Background:

    • Cytokine modulation of human lung mast cells (MC) is not well understood.
    • The c-kit ligand (KL) was previously shown to modulate IgE-dependent mediator release in freshly isolated human lung MC.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the effect of KL on cultured human lung MC.
    • To compare the functional responsiveness of human and rodent MC to cytokines.

    Main Methods:

    • Human lung MC were cultured for several days.
    • The effect of KL on mediator release (histamine, leukotrienes) from cultured MC was assessed.
    • IgE-dependent responses in cultured MC were evaluated.

    Main Results:

    • KL induced significant mediator release from cultured MC without additional stimuli.
    • Cultured MC exhibited a strongly enhanced IgE-dependent response compared to freshly isolated cells.
    • Human and rodent MC showed distinct functional responses to cytokines.

    Conclusions:

    • KL acts as a potent trigger for cultured human lung MC.
    • Cytokine responsiveness differs significantly between human and rodent MC.
    • KL may play a crucial role in mast cell-associated diseases, including asthma.

    Keywords:
    CultureHistamineLeukotrienesMast cellsSteel factorc-<italic>kit</italic> ligand

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