In vitro sensitization and mast cell degranulation in human jejunal mucosa.

Sera from 3 allergic patients with specific IgE antibodies as shown by RAST were used to sensitize jejunal mucosa obtained from surgical patients. The sensitized specimens were challenged with the appropriate antigens to the specific IgE shown in the sera, Non-challenged sensitized specimens were used as controls to determine mast cell degranulation. The mast cells were counted in a defined area in the mucosa immediately adjacent to the muscularis mucosa. Mast cell degranulation was 47 percent in a timothy pollen system, 40 percent in an eggwhite system, and 33 percent in a codfish system. The results of the investigation indicates that mast cells in the human jejunal mucosa are able to react in the same manner as mast cells in the human lung. The experimental model described appears suitable for studying the allergic reaction in the gastrointestinal tract and the effect of pharmacotherapy in this respect.