The role of mast cells in inflammatory and malignant lesions of the oral cavity

Abstract

Mast cells (MC) were described over 100 years ago by Paul Erlich. They are located in the connective tissue in the immediate vicinity of the blood vessels. Mast cells originate from a medullary progenitor cell. It presents in the cytoplasm numerous granules with a variable content of mediators. Different subpopulations of mast cells are described depending on their content in proteases and localization. They are multifunctional cells, being involved both in the body's physiological processes, but also in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Mast cells are involved in the initiation of inflammatory processes in the oral cavity by releasing proinflammatory cytokines. The role of mast cells in cancer is still debatable whether they contribute to tumor progression or have an antitumor effect. In the future, more in-depth research on mast cells may provide not only insights into their biology, but also a better understanding of their role in various diseases. Mast cells still cause many debates regarding their role in cancer, including oral cancer. The presence of mast cells in oral squamous cell carcinomas has been noted by many authors, but their role remains unclear. However, new therapies targeting mast cells could play an important role in controlling tumor growth and metastasis.