Mast cells as pivotal players in atherogenesis. Review

The mast cell is an immune cell involved primary in host defense of organism. Moreover, it plays an important role in atopic diseases. Recently, accumulating evidence established the contribution of the mast cell in atherogenesis. Through its release of mediators, activated mast cells can have proatherogenic effects on its surroundings in the vessel wall. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge on mast cell function in atherogenesis and atherosclerosis - caused cardiovascular diseases.