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Immunology and Infectious Disease Commons™
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Full-Text Articles in Immunology and Infectious Disease
The Effect Of Statins On Il-33 Mediated Mast Cell Function, Marcela Taruselli
The Effect Of Statins On Il-33 Mediated Mast Cell Function, Marcela Taruselli
Theses and Dissertations
This study demonstrates original findings of statin effects on IL-33 stimulated mast cells. Statins are a class of drugs used to lower cholesterol production by targeting HMG CoA reductase. These commonly prescribed drugs have been shown to be immunomodulatory. In this study, we have found that pretreatment with statins has a variety of effects on IL-33 stimulated mast cells. Atorvastatin suppresses TNF and IL-6 production, while fluvastatin significantly enhances release of these proinflammatory cytokines in BMMCs. Although they have differing effects on cytokine production, both statins lowered ST2 expression on the cell surface, decreased cell viability, and enhanced expression of …
Mast Cells In Kainate Receptor Knockout Mice, Andrea J. Elkovich
Mast Cells In Kainate Receptor Knockout Mice, Andrea J. Elkovich
Theses and Dissertations
Kainate receptor knockout mice have unique differences within their immune system. They exhibit an attenuated TH2 branch, while maintaining a robust TH1 response. Specifically, blocking the formation of functional kainate receptors affects mast cells and their related pathologies. While they seem to develop and activate normally in vivo and in vitro, KAR KO mast cells release more inflammatory mediators upon degranulation. These mice experience severe anaphylactic shock due to two compounding abnormalities. First, KAR KO mast cells release significantly more histamine in vivo upon IgE-mediated activation. Second, the animals over-respond to exogenous histamine with drastic …