Chapter 23 - Modulation of Peripheral Neurotransmission Associated with Mast Cell Activation

Abstract

This chapter discusses the modulation of peripheral neurotransmission associated with mast cell (MC) activation. MCs are anatomically associated with all types of peripheral nerves. The most self-evident neuronal response to mast cell activation is stimulation of sensory nerves. This is especially the case when mast cells are activated by a specific allergen. Allergen provocation leads to intense itching, coughing, and sneezing. These reflexes are triggered by stimulation of primary afferent nerves in the skin and airways, respectively. The mediators and ionic mechanism of mast cells associated with neural modulations is complex and strictly dependent on the neuronal system and this effect is studied here. Histamine is effective in activating sensory and enteric nerves and can modulate synaptic transmission in autonomic ganglia. Other mast cell mediators including prostaglandin D2, leukotrienes, tryptase, and nerve growth factor have also been implicated in the neuromodulation associated with allergy. Numerous studies have led to the hypothesis that both motility and secretory changes associated with antigenic activation of mast cells are due to modulation of the enteric nervous system. The anatomical association of mast cells and nerves and the profound influence of mast cell mediators on neuronal activity, leads to the speculation that mast cell-nerve interaction may be more than a mechanism by which symptoms of allergy are triggered. Mast cell-nerve interactions have also been interpreted as important in neuronal survival and tissue repair mechanisms following injury.