The role of mast cell and basophil activation in human allergic reactions.

Recently developed techniques of purification of human basophils and mast cells from different anatomical sites have made possible the investigation of the biochemical steps leading to mediator release and the pharmacological control of cells participating in allergic reactions. These techniques have also outlined differences between mast cells and basophils with regard to mediator release, activity of secretagogues and pharmacological modulation. The similarities and analogies between in vivo observations and in vitro findings with human mast cells and basophils suggest that the in vitro findings may represent important models for obtaining insight into the mechanisms and to develop therapeutic agents for the treatment of allergic diseases.