Importance of mast cells in the pathophysiology of asthma

MCs promote chronic inflammation and the development of airway remodeling in asthma through MC-derived cytokines, chemokines, proteases, and interaction with other immune cells (T cells and eosinophils). The rapid innovation of genetic technologies and new techniques of MC knock-out/knock-in animal model are improving our understanding of the complex relationships between the various cell types involved in the immune network of the airway and will clarify the role of MCs in the pathogenesis of asthma. Targeting MCs may be a new treatment modality in treatment and prevention of asthma.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]