Photo Credit: Artur Plawgo

The following is a summary of “Mast cell–sensory neuron crosstalk in allergic diseases,” published in the April 2024 issue of Allergy & Immunology by Bao, et al.

For a study, researchers sought to explore the roles of MC–sensory neuron crosstalk in allergic diseases, shedding light on how activated MCs trigger sensory neurons to initiate signaling in pruritus, shock, and potentially abdominal pain in allergy and how activated sensory neurons regulate MCs in homeostasis and atopic dermatitis associated with contact hypersensitivity and type 2 inflammation.

The study synthesized existing literature on MC–sensory neuron communication in allergic diseases. Relevant studies exploring the interaction between MCs and sensory neurons in conditions such as pruritus, shock, abdominal pain, atopic dermatitis, and contact hypersensitivity were identified through comprehensive literature searches.

It highlighted the close physical proximity and reciprocal activation between MCs and sensory neurons. It discussed how MCs stimulate sensory neurons, triggering signaling pathways in pruritus, shock, and abdominal pain associated with allergic reactions. Additionally, the review examines how sensory neurons regulate MC activity, particularly in the context of atopic dermatitis and contact hypersensitivity characterized by type 2 inflammation. The interplay between MCs and sensory neurons is elucidated, suggesting a potential positive feedback loop sustaining inflammation in allergic diseases.

The study underscored the critical roles of MC–sensory neuron crosstalk in allergic diseases. It suggests that unraveling the complexities of their interaction could lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches for conditions such as pruritus, shock, abdominal pain, atopic dermatitis, and contact hypersensitivity. Understanding the mechanisms underlying MC–sensory neuron communication may identify new avenues for intervention and treatment in allergic diseases, offering hope for improved management and outcomes for affected individuals.

Reference: sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0091674924001830