Is it time for a new classification of mast cells? What do we know about mast cell heterogeneity?

We describe the discovery of unique cell molecules that can be used to distinguish specific MC subsets in vivo, and discuss how the improved ability to recognize these subsets provided new insights into the biology of MCs. These recent advances will be helpful for the understanding of the specific role of individual MC subsets in the control of tissue homeostasis, and in the regulation of pathological conditions such as infection, autoimmunity, and cancer.
Source: Immunological Reviews - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Tags: INVITED REVIEW Source Type: research