Nature of the Secretory Activity of the Mast Cell

Abstract

In the tissues of the peritoneal cavity the mast cell appears to be the only cell capable of releasing histamine. Protamine sulfate and toluidine blue in certain concentrations in Tyrode's solution when injected intraperitoneally elicit the liberation of measurable amounts of histamine into the peritoneal fluid. Repeated injections of these substances cause repeated liberation of histamine. No visible changes in the mesenteric mast cells follow this treatment. It is concluded that secretion by the mast cell does not require cell disruption and death as much of the literature indicates but is merocrine in nature. The mast cell appears to be an endocrine cell which can continuously elaborate and release histamine in in response to appropriate stimulation.