Epsilon Open Archive

Abstract

Mast cells are a type of white blood cell and are best known for their harmful effects in connection with allergic reactions, but they may also be involved in many other diseases, such as cancer, bacterial infections and atherosclerosis. Intensive research is currently under way to determine exactly how mast cells influence these diseases. Recent studies indicate that various substances, stored inside the secretory granules of mast cells, are the active components. SLU's world-leading mast cell researchers have shown how the storage of active components in the granules of mast cells takes place. The same researchers lie behind the discovery of new active components which are stored in granules. They have also shown how enzymes in granules can break down proinflammatory substances, which are produced by other types of white blood cells. This understanding could help improve the therapy for various mast cell-related diseases. The SLU researchers have recently written a review of mast cell secretory granules in Nature Reviews Immunology.