Inhibition of basophil and mast cell activation by CD300a: is there a role for apoptotic signals?

Despite the high efficacy of allergen-specific immunotherapy, little is known about the mechanisms leading to suppression of basophils and mast cells, which are responsible for the allergic reaction. Therefore, we will assess whether CD300a might be involved in succesfull allergen-specific immunotherapy. It is anticipated that immunotherapy might alter the basophilic and mast cellexpression of this receptor, thereby rendering these cells less vulnerable for activation. For this purpose we will apply our recently patented flow cytometric technique that allows a triple analysis of phenotype, signal transduction and histamine release on a single cell level.

Keywords:APOPTOSIS, MAST CELLS, BASOPHILS

Disciplines:Immunology