Mast cells

Mast cells are a type of white blood cell in the immune system that play a key role in inflammation and allergy responses. They are found in many tissues throughout the body, particularly in areas that are in close contact with the external environment, such as the skin, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract.

Structure and Function

Mast cells are large, granular cells that contain numerous granules rich in histamine and heparin. They are derived from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow and mature in the tissues where they reside.

The primary function of mast cells is to mediate inflammatory responses. They do this by releasing their granules in response to various stimuli, such as pathogen invasion or tissue injury. The granules contain a variety of substances, including histamine, heparin, proteases, and cytokines, which contribute to inflammation and other immune responses.

Role in Disease

Mast cells are involved in many diseases, particularly those involving inflammation and allergies. In allergic reactions, mast cells release their granules in response to exposure to an allergen, leading to symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling. Mast cells also play a role in asthma, eczema, and anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction.

In addition, mast cells have been implicated in a number of other diseases, including autoimmune diseases, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. However, the exact role of mast cells in these diseases is still not fully understood and is the subject of ongoing research.

See Also

• Basophils
• Eosinophils
• Neutrophils
• Monocytes
• Lymphocytes

References

Mast cells Resources
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