Mast Cells and their Role in Inflammatory and Tumor Tissues

Abstract

Mast cells are multifunctional cells and they can also have a role as effector factors of the human innate and adaptive immune system. While a number of researchers still assume Mast cells to be augmenters of tumor growth, particularly via their effects on neoplastic angiogenesis; growing clinical and laboratory information also signify that Mast Cells could hamper tumor development. This inhibitory or promoting effect of Mast cells on tumor expansion seems to be depending on numerous relations among Mast cell, tumor cell type and the tumor stroma. Further in vitro and in vivo researches are required to elucidate more the interactions among Mast cells, tumor tissue and other inflammatory cells.