mast cell

noun

, Biology.

1. a large granular cell, common in connective tissue, that produces heparin, histamine, and serotonin.

mast cell

noun

1. a type of granular basophil cell in connective tissue that releases heparin, histamine, and serotonin during inflammation and allergic reactions

mast cell

/ măst /

1. A granular cell found in body tissue, especially connective tissue, that activates inflammation by releasing a variety of chemical substances including histamine, tumor necrosis factor, and interleukins. Mast cells have membrane receptors that bind to bacteria, triggering the release of inflammatory mediators from the mast cell's cytoplasmic granules. Mast cells also play an important role in allergic reactions. Other receptors on their membranes bind to specific antibodies that, combined with certain antigens, initiate granular release of chemical mediators that cause allergic signs and symptoms.

Word History and Origins

Origin of mast cell¹

1885–90; partial translation of German Mastzelle, equivalent to Mast fattening of animals for slaughter, mast ² + Zelle cell

Word History and Origins

Origin of mast cell¹

C19: from mast ², on the model of German Mastzelle

Example Sentences

The substance of the mast cell granulations is also crystalline in some species of animals.

From Project Gutenberg

The mast cell granulations are stained pure blue, the eosinophil red, the neutrophil in mixed colour.

From Project Gutenberg

Evidently part of the dyed mast cell substance is dissolved and retained in the immediate neighbourhood.

From Project Gutenberg