Molecular genetics and development of mast cells: implications for molecular medicine.

For a long time the biology of mast cells has remained an enigma. During the past few decades, molecular research has filled many of the gaps in our understanding of this multifunctional cell type. Several concepts are now established about the origin and development of mast cells. However, the mechanisms leading to autonomous proliferation of mast cells in patients with indolent or aggressive mastocytosis still require further investigation. This article focuses on the recent advances in the field of mast cell development and abnormal mast cell proliferation, and reviews data from the most significant mouse models, which have provided the basis for many of these new insights.