The Role of Mast Cell-Neuron Tandem in the Regulation of Cardiac Function in Cardiovascular Pathologies

Abstract

This review is consisted of new data about participation of mast cells (MCs) in the regulation of cardiac function in the development of some cardiovascular pathologies. In norm the number of MCs in the heart is very small compared to their number in barrier tissues. They are responsible for homeostasis of cardiac tissue and ensuring the interaction of the organ with the nervous and endocrine systems throughout the life of the organism. Pathological processes in the heart are accompanied by the development of inflammation reaction. MCs fulfil a significant role in the all stages of inflammation. The number of MCs significantly increases against the background of myocardial infarction development, fibrotic heart disease and vascular atherosclerosis. Their contribution to the pathogenesis of the disease is ambiguous, because on the one hand it is aimed at tissue adaptation to damage, and on the other hand - avalanche-like synthesis and release of mediators from activated MCs aggravates the course of the process. As a result, MCs change their secretory profile, interfere in the realization of cardiac functions against the background of inflammation, but at the same time modulate afferent information flow from the heart and efferent influences of the nervous system. The coordinated work of the system loses its stability, which can lead to severe consequences for the vital activity of the whole organism. The analysis of the current state of the problem indicates that the heart activity depends on the functional state of MCs, their complex interaction with the nervous system both in the norm and, especially, against the background of pathological processes development.