IL-10 inhibits Fc epsilon RI expression in mouse mast cells.

FcepsilonRI expression and function is a central aspect of allergic disease. Using bone marrow-derived mouse mast cell populations, we have previously shown that the Th2 cytokine IL-4 inhibits FcepsilonRI expression and function. In the current study we show that the Th2 cytokine IL-10 has similar regulatory properties, and that it augments the inhibitory effects of IL-4.

Stat5 expression is critical for mast cell development and survival.

Interleukin-3 (IL-3) and stem cell factor (SCF) are important mast cell growth and differentiation factors. Since both cytokines activate the transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (Stat5), a known regulator of proliferation and survival, we investigated the effects of Stat5 deficiency on mast cell development and survival. Bone marrow-derived mast cell (BMMC) populations cultured from Stat5A/B-deficient mice survived in IL-3 + SCF, but not in either cytokine alone.

Stat5: an essential regulator of mast cell biology.

Interleukin-3 (IL-3) and stem cell factor (SCF) are important mast cell growth and differentiation factors. Since both cytokines activate the transcription factor Stat5, a known regulator of proliferation and survival, we investigated the effects of Stat5 deficiency on mast cell development and survival. This article will review data presented at The Fourth International Workshop on Signal Transduction in the Activation and Development of Mast Cells and Basophils.