Mast cells: novel clinical perspectives from recent insights

Authors: Kneilling, Manfred; Röcken, Martin

Source: Experimental Dermatology, Volume 18, Number 5, May 2009 , pp. 488-496(9)

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $48.00 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

Please cite this paper as: Mast cells: novel clinical perspectives from recent insights. Experimental Dermatology 2009; 18: 488-496. Abstract:

Mast cells are still generally viewed as mediators of type I allergic or pseudoallergic reactions. Research over the past 10 years revealed that our view was too small and that mast cells are of key importance in innate immunity and also types II, III and IV adaptive immune reactions. Understanding their role in modulating and amplifying of inflammatory responses provides important insights into the pathogenesis of skin diseases such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, bullous pemphigoid or the control of infections. This helps us to understand the course of these diseases, their trigger mechanisms, and, the new role of agents, which can modulate the function of mast cells. These insights will help to develop new therapeutic approaches.

Keywords: adaptive immunity; antigen presenting cells; innate immunity; mast cells; skin infection; skin inflammation; skin tumor; T cells

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0625.2009.00860.x

Publication date: 2009-05-01