MAST CELLS, THE EFFECTOR CELLS OF IgE-MEDIATED ALLERGY

Background: Mast cells, are the primary responder cells of IgE-mediated allergy and while extensive research has been done to elucidate their precise structural and functional characteristics, mast cells are a type of tissue resident cell which makes their isolation and use for various research and diagnostic procedures in the field of allergy and immunology very complicated. Recently, attempts have been made to devise a method measuring mast cell degranulation through allergen stimulation for allergy diagnosis – Mast cell activation test (MAT). The aim of this article is to summarize existing knowledge on mast cells, the MAT, and the related Basophil activation test (BAT) on which the MAT is based on. Methods: We analyzed data from 51 relevant articles. Results: We made an extensive literature review of available data on the cytology, biochemistry and role of mast cells in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases-anaphylaxis, allergic rhinitis, and bronchial asthma, as well as available data on the MAT andhow it compares to the BAT. Conclusion: While much key information is available on mast cells, further research is required to expand on their function and role in allergy. Further research is needed to adequately compare MAT and BAT and create standardized protocols for the application of MAT in clinical practice and allergy research.