Mast cells: the immune gate to the brain.
Life Sci 1990;46(9):607-17
Theoharides TC
PDF Version for Download‘, ‘PDF Version for DownloadMast cells were originally considered wandering histiocytes, butare now known to derive from the bone marrow and enter thetissues as immature or precursor cells which then differentiateunder micro-environmental influences such asinterleukin-3. Atleast three types of mature mast cells have been identifiedasserosal (lung, peritoneal, skin), mucosal (nasal,gastrointestinal) and brain(dural, perivascular, parenchymal) withtheir own distinct biochemical,morphological and functionalcharacteristics. Mast cells are necessary for immediatehypersensitivity reactions where they release numerousbiologically powerful mediators in response to immunoglobulin E(IgE) and antigen (Ag), and appear to be required for delayedreactions. Anaphylatoxins, basic peptides and drugs, as well ascertain neuropeptides and hormones, can also trigger mast cellsecretion. Recent evidence indicates that mast cells are found inclose proximity to neurons, an association which may beregulated by nerve growth factor. Moreover, mast cells may becapable of selective release of mediators which could, in turn,regulate further secretion. This information suggests that mastcells may serve as a link between the immune, endocrine andnervous systems and could have an important role in the accessof lymphocytes and pathogens to the brain. The possible role ofsuch interactions in the pathophysiology of specificneuroinflammatory conditions is also discussed.’, ‘Publication Types:ReviewReview, tutorial
PMID: 2407920
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