mast cell migration

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The movement of a mast cell within or between different tissues and organs of the body. [GOC:cvs, PMID:24152847]

Mast cell migration is a crucial process in immune responses, involving the coordinated movement of these cells from the bloodstream to tissues. It is triggered by various stimuli, including chemokines, cytokines, and other inflammatory mediators. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:

1. **Chemotaxis:** Mast cells express a variety of chemokine receptors, such as CCR3 and CCR2, which bind to chemokines released at sites of inflammation or injury. This binding initiates a signaling cascade that triggers the cell's migration towards the chemokine gradient.

2. **Adhesion and Rolling:** As mast cells approach the site of inflammation, they encounter endothelial cells lining blood vessels. They transiently adhere to these cells through selectin-mediated interactions, allowing them to roll along the vessel wall.

3. **Diapedesis:** Mast cells then firmly adhere to the endothelium through integrins, particularly VLA-4 and LFA-1. This firm adhesion enables them to squeeze between endothelial cells, a process known as diapedesis, and enter the surrounding tissues.

4. **Directed Migration:** Once in the tissue, mast cells continue to migrate toward the source of the chemokine gradient, guided by chemotactic signals. This directional movement is driven by cytoskeletal rearrangements within the mast cell, with actin polymerization playing a key role.

5. **Activation and Effector Functions:** Upon reaching the site of inflammation, mast cells can be further activated by various triggers, including allergens, pathogens, and tissue damage. This activation leads to the release of inflammatory mediators, such as histamine, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes, which contribute to the inflammatory response and tissue repair.

6. **Role in Immune Surveillance:** Mast cell migration also plays a role in immune surveillance, allowing these cells to patrol tissues and detect potential threats. This patrolling is facilitated by chemokines and other signals released by resident cells in the tissue.

In summary, mast cell migration is a complex and tightly regulated process involving a series of coordinated events, including chemotaxis, adhesion, diapedesis, and directed migration. This process allows mast cells to reach sites of inflammation and participate in immune responses, contributing to both defense against pathogens and tissue repair.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (4)