Curbing Inflammation in Multiple Sclerosis and Endometriosis: Should Mast Cells Be Targeted?

Abstract

Inflammatory diseases and conditions can arise due to responses to a variety of external and internal stimuli. They can occur acutely in response to some stimuli and then become chronic leading to tissue damage and loss of function. While a number of cell types can be involved, mast cells are often present and can be involved in the acute and chronic processes. Recent studies in porcine and rabbit models have supported the concept of a central role for mast cells in a “nerve-mast cell-myofibroblast axis” in some inflammatory processes leading to fibrogenic outcomes. The current review is focused on the potential of extending aspects of this paradigm into treatments for multiple sclerosis and endometriosis, diseases not usually thought of as having common features, but both are reported to have activation of mast cells involved in their respective disease processes. Based on the discussion, it is proposed that targeting mast cells in these diseases, particularly the early phases, may be a fruitful avenue to control the recurring inflammatory exacerbations of the conditions.

Calming Down Mast Cells with Ketotifen: A Potential Strategy for Multiple Sclerosis Therapy?

“…The control of inflammation in MS by targeting mast cells has been proposed and scientifically supported by recognized experts in this field [21,34,64,81,89]. We believe that our results further strengthen the rationale for exploring this and other mast cell stabilizers in the therapy of MS. As suggested by our findings and highlighted by Hart [102], administration of this and other mast cell targeted drugs will probably be more beneficial at earlier disease phases. Association of this or similar pharmaceuticals and other already classical drugs used in MS are worthwhile to be tested, considering that their associations could have a much stronger therapeutic potential.…”

Phytotherapeutische Behandlungsmöglichkeiten bei Endometriose-Erkrankungen

“…Ätiologisch wird eine biochemische Prägung während der Schwangerschaft und perinatal diskutiert [12,13]. Eine Belastung mit Xeno-Östrogenen ist mit Endometriose und Myomata korreliert [10,14]. Mit Beginn der Pubertät wird eine Entzündungskaskade ausgelöst, die über die Estradiol-Produktion gesteuert ist [2,[15][16][17][18].…”

Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells and 5’adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase in the inflammatory response: a potential therapeutic target

“…The alterations of the regulatory signals associated with inflammation are linked to the development and progression of chronic diseases like coronary artery disease, diabetes, obesity, and oncologic processes [4]. The extent of inflammation depends on the severity of injury [5]. Acute inflammation can lead to chronic inflammation depending on affected tissue, genetic makeup of the subject, and severity of the injury [5].…”

“…The extent of inflammation depends on the severity of injury [5]. Acute inflammation can lead to chronic inflammation depending on affected tissue, genetic makeup of the subject, and severity of the injury [5]. The interplay between the inflammatory cells, host cells, and biomolecules/signaling molecules is key in the regulation of inflammation and specific inflammatory pathways [6].…”