mast_cell_flashcards
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What is the role of mast cells in inflammation?
Mast cells release inflammatory mediators that initiate and regulate the inflammatory response.
What are the two major ways mast cells respond to stimulation?
Mast cells respond by degranulation (releasing stored mediators) and synthesis of new inflammatory mediators.
What substances are released immediately after mast cell degranulation?
Histamine, chemotactic factors, and other biologically active substances are released immediately.
What is the function of histamine in inflammation?
Histamine causes vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, leading to swelling and redness.
What are chemotactic factors released from mast cells and their role?
Chemotactic factors attract immune cells like neutrophils and eosinophils to the site of inflammation.
What is the long-term response of mast cells in inflammation?
Mast cells synthesize and release leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and platelet-activating factors for long-term effects.
What role do leukotrienes play in inflammation?
Leukotrienes act similarly to histamine but have a more sustained effect in inflammation.
What is the role of prostaglandins in inflammation?
Prostaglandins enhance inflammation by inducing vasodilation, increasing vascular permeability, and causing pain.
What is the role of platelet-activating factor in inflammation?
Platelet-activating factor enhances vascular permeability and stimulates the aggregation of platelets.
How does phospholipase A contribute to inflammation?
Phospholipase A generates arachidonic acid, which is a precursor for leukotrienes and prostaglandins.
What are the effects of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in inflammation?
TNF-α promotes inflammation by increasing vascular permeability and stimulating the release of other inflammatory mediators.
What are interleukins, and how do they mediate inflammation?
Interleukins are cytokines that regulate immune responses and mediate the inflammatory process.
What triggers the degranulation of mast cells?
Mast cell degranulation can be triggered by injury, immune responses, or pathogens.
What are the structural features of mast cells that store inflammatory mediators?
Mast cells contain dense granules filled with biologically active substances like histamine and chemotactic factors.
How do mast cells promote tissue proliferation during inflammation?
Mast cells release growth factors that promote tissue proliferation and repair during the healing process.
What is the difference between mast cell degranulation and synthesis of mediators?
Degranulation is the release of pre-stored mediators, while synthesis involves the production of new mediators.
What are the primary functions of leukotrienes compared to histamine?
Leukotrienes have similar effects to histamine but are more potent in sustaining the inflammatory response.
How do prostaglandins contribute to pain during inflammation?
Prostaglandins sensitize nerve endings, contributing to the sensation of pain.
What are the growth factors released by mast cells, and their role in tissue repair?
Mast cells release growth factors that stimulate tissue repair and regeneration.
What is the immediate effect of mast cell degranulation on blood vessels?
Mast cell degranulation causes immediate vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, leading to swelling.
