The role of mast cells in allergic and other inflammatory diseases: versatile effectors from homeostasis to disease

Mast cell biology spans immunology, inflammation, and tissue homeostasis. Traditionally viewed as principal effectors of IgE-mediated allergic reactions, mast cells are now understood to be highly versatile cells involved in a broad range of physiological and pathological processes. These include modulating innate and adaptive immune responses, tissue repair and fibrosis, neuroimmune communication, and regulating the tumor microenvironment. Despite decades of study, the full spectrum of mast cell functions and their molecular regulation remains only partially understood. Current evidence highlights their phenotypic heterogeneity and environmental adaptability, revealing that tissue-specific microenvironments shape their function. However, challenges persist in translating these findings into targeted therapies, as the mechanisms underpinning mast cell activation, signaling diversity, and contribution to non-allergic diseases are still incompletely understood. This complexity underscores the importance of integrating new omics tools, advanced in vivo models, and clinical observations to bridge fundamental discoveries with clinical applications.This Research Topic aims to examine the evolving understanding of mast cell roles in allergic and non-allergic conditions, uniting basic research with clinical innovation. It seeks to clarify how mast cells orchestrate immune interactions, influence inflammatory outcomes, and contribute to disease mechanisms across tissues. Key objectives include identifying new regulatory pathways governing mast cell activation, clarifying their interplay with other immune and stromal cells, and evaluating targeted therapeutic strategies designed to selectively modulate their activity. By addressing these goals, this topic aspires to define unifying principles that underlie mast cell biology and disease pathology and to stimulate the development of next-generation interventions.To gather further insights into mast cell biology across health and disease, we welcome articles that encompass molecular, cellular, translational, and clinical perspectives. Eligible article types include Original Research, Review, Perspective, Mini Review, and Opinion articles. Contributions may include, but are not limited to, the following themes:- Mast cells in allergic diseases, including new mechanisms of IgE and Fc receptor signaling and interactions with other immune cells.- Advances in understanding mast cell activation syndrome and mastocytosis, including biomarkers, genetics, and therapeutic management.- The roles of mast cells beyond allergy, such as in fibrosis, neuroinflammation, autoimmunity, and cancer biology.- Development of therapeutic strategies targeting mast cell signaling pathways, mediators, and surface receptors.- Fundamental research on mast cell development, heterogeneity, transcriptomics, and microenvironmental adaptation.By bridging basic, translational, and clinical perspectives, this Research Topic seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state and future directions of mast cell research, fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue among allergists, immunologists, and cell biologists worldwide.Please note that manuscripts submitted to this Research Topic that do not investigate mechanisms related to immunology are out of scope for this journal.Please also note that Prof. Cem Akin provides research support and consultancy related to mastocytosis to Blueprint Medicines, Cogent, and Telios, and consultancy related to anaphylaxis to Novartis. Topic editors: Yoshimichi Okayama, Cem Akin, Glenn Cruse Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83007/the-role-of-mast-cells-in-allergic-and-other-inflammatory-diseases-versatile-effectors-from-homeostasis-to-disease