Mastocyte (Noun)
Meaning
A large connective tissue cell that contains histamine and heparin and serotonin which are released in allergic reactions or in response to injury or inflammation.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The degranulation of mastocytes plays a key role in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases.
- Mastocytes are often found in areas of the body that are prone to injury or inflammation, such as the skin and the respiratory tract.
- The release of histamine and other chemical mediators from mastocytes triggers a cascade of biological responses that can lead to anaphylaxis.
- Mastocytes have been implicated in a variety of diseases, including asthma, eczema, and rheumatoid arthritis.
- When stimulated by an allergen or injury, mastocytes release their granules into the surrounding tissue, where they can cause blood vessels to dilate and smooth muscle to contract.