Recent advances on the signal transduction pathway of IgE mediated mast cell degranulation.

Mast cells are central cells of allergic diseases. Their involvement in allergic reactions is largely dependent on activation of the specific receptor for IgE (FceRI). Cross-linking of FceRI on mast cells initiates a cascade of signaling events that eventually results in degranulation, cytokine/chemokine production, and leukotriene release, contributing to allergic symptomology. Because of the importance of IgE in allergy, much focus has been placed on deciphering the signaling events that take place downstream of FceRI. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying mast cell activation ideally will provide insights into the development of novel therapeutics to control allergic disease.