Mast Cells: Physiological and Pathological Aspects

Mast cells are mobile granule-containing secretory cells that are distributed preferentially about the microvascular endothelium in oral mucosa and dental pulp. They possess many properties that enable them to participate in a diverse range of biological activities. These cells secrete wide range of pro-inflammatory, immune-modulatory and mitogenic cytokines. Recently, apart from their roles in the maintenance of homeostasis and in inflammation, the association of mast cells with various tumors has been described.