Mast cell-tumor cell interactions via extracellular vesicles: A minireview

Abstract

Mast cells (MCs) are effector cells of the immune system playing a crucial role in numerous physiological and pathological conditions. MCs are also known to be involved in the progression of various malignoma. Tumor-promoting and tumor-inhibiting effects have been described. However, the exact MC/tumor cell interaction pathways are far from clear. In this mini view, the MCs’ roles were outlined during tumor progression, and the literature on extracellular vesicles (EVs) was reviewed as a possible communication pathway.