title: Mast cells as novel mediators of reproductive processes.
abstract: The relationship between mast cells (MCs) and pregnancy is a controversially discussed topic. The presence and quantitative distribution of MCs in the reproductive tract was confirmed in different species. A phase-dependent oscillation of MCs during the hormonal regulated estrous cycle was suggested and on this basis, MCs were assumed to play a positive role in implantation because of their ability to secrete histamine. At later pregnancy stages, they were proposed to have rather a negative role, as their exacerbated activation is associated with pre-term delivery. The present review is intended to provide an overview about uterine MCs that bring to light their unexpected relevance for reproductive processes.
authors: Department of Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany.
authors: Katja
authors: K
authors: Woidacki
authors: Federico
authors: F
authors: Jensen
authors: Ana C
authors: AC
authors: Zenclussen
keywords: implantation; mast cells; placenta; pregnancy; uterus