Mast cells and allergic airway disease

Authors: Sebastian Reuter and Christian Taube

Citation: Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology 2008, 3(Suppl 1):S2doi:10.1186/1745-6673-3-S1-S2

Published: 27 February 2008

To read the complete article, click here. Originally published in BioMed Central. Open Access.

ABSTRACT

Murine models have highlighted the importance of T-cells and TH2 cytokines in development of allergen-induced airway disease. In contrast, the role of mast cells for the development of allergic airway disease has been controversial. Recent studies in murine models demonstrate a significant contribution of mast cells during the development of airway hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation. Furthermore these models have allowed identifying certain mast cell-produced mediators (e.g. histamine and leukotriene B4) to be involved in the recruitment of effector T-cells into the lung. Additionally, mast cell-produced TNF can directly activate TH2 cells and contribute to the development of allergic airway disease. These new findings demonstrate a complex role of mast cells and their mediators, not only as effector cells, but also during sensitization and development of allergic airway disease. Therefore mast cells and certain mast cell-produced mediators might be an interesting target for the prevention and treatment of allergic asthma.

 

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