Mast cells-Good guys with a bad image?

Am J Reprod Immunol. 2018 Oct;80(4):e13002. doi: 10.1111/aji.13002. Epub 2018 Jun 19.

Abstract

Mast cells (MCs) are most known because of their prominent role in allergy. In the last years, however, it has become clear that they have pleiotropic functions and a high adaptability to the milieu. This review focuses on negative and positive roles of MCs within the body with particular emphasis on their participation in reproductive processes.

Keywords: MC-associated diseases; angiogenesis; mast cells; reproduction; tissue remodeling.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cellular Microenvironment / immunology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology*
  • Immunity, Innate / immunology*
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Mast Cells / immunology*
  • Pregnancy
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-kit / immunology
  • Receptors, IgE / immunology

Substances

  • Receptors, IgE
  • KIT protein, human
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-kit