WHAT IS THIS?
Mast Cells - A Visual Interpretation
Mast cells are a part of the immune system and can be found throughout the body. Inside the mast cell are tiny granules containing different chemicals that cause inflammation. These unique cells control many bodily functions and are important immune, allergy and infection fighting or defensive cells. However, if we have too many of these covert immune cells in an area or they misbehave, severe symptoms and serious disorders can result. This intricate design is an interpretation of mast cells in activation.
In this image, the mast cell, similar in appearance to a white blood cell (white/blue areas), contains many storage granules (purple spheres) rich in histamine and heparin (small orange granules).
When allergens (green & pink spiked shapes) make contact with antibodies (yellow Y-shaped pairs), a mast cell reaction is triggered, releasing histamine into the system (represented by the release of orange granules).
Click the label links to learn more.
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Thanks to Dr. Theoharis C.Theoharides for his guidance with this visual interpretation of mast cells in activation.
