Mast cells in autoimmune disease.
Mast cells are known to be the primary responders in allergic reactions, orchestrating strong responses to minute amounts of allergens. Several recent observations indicate that they may also have a key role in coordinating the early phases of autoimmune diseases, particularly those involving auto-antibodies.
Benoist
Christophe
C
Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA. cbdm@joslin.harvard.edu
Mathis
Diane
D
D000818:Animals; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology*; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology; D008407:Mast Cells / Q000276:immunology*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology