This article is part of the supplement: Proceedings of the 6th Workshop on Animal Models of Asthma

Review

Mast cells and the development of allergic airway disease

Sebastian Reuter and Christian Taube

III. Medical Clinic, Dept. of Pulmonary Medicine, Johannes-Gutenberg-University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55101 Mainz, Germany

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

Published:	27 February 2008

Abstract

Murine models have highlighted the importance of T-cells and T_H2 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 T_H2 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.