Recent progress on pathophysiology inflammation and defense mechanism of mast cells against invading microbes: inhibitory effect of IL-37

摘要

Mast cells (MCs) have historically been considered masters of allergy, but there is substantial evidence supporting their contribution to tissue microorganism clearance. Their activation through the cross-linking of bound IgE provokes mast cell degranulation and activates tyrosine kinase (Syk and Lyn), leading to cytokine/chemokine generation and release. Current consensus holds that mast cells participate in the body’s defense against numerous pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites, but also contribute to the inflammatory response induced by these biological agents. In the light of the latest findings, we describe the cross-talk between mast cells and pathogenic microorganisms. This review summarizes our current understanding of the host immune response, with emphasis on the roles of MCs and the cytokine/chemokine network in provoking inflammation and generating protective immunity.