Mast cells synthesize, store, and release nerve growth factor

Nerve growth factor (NGF) and lenses: effects of NGF in an in vitro rat model of cataract

“…The expression of NGF and its high affinity receptor on the same cells suggest that this neurotrophin may support the trophism and/or the function of the lens epithelium as demonstrated for several neuronal and immune cells [10,19,26]. In this study, the development of cataract changes was associated with a decrease of NGF levels in the lens.…”

Effects of endogenous substance P expression on degranulation in RBL-2H3 cells

“…Recent studies have demonstrated that SP is produced by inflammatory cells, including macrophages, eosinophils, and lymphocytes [9][10][11][12]19]. Leon et al [22] previously observed that mast cells synthesize and release the nerve growth factor peptide. However, prior to the current report, it was unknown whether endogenous SP is expressed in mast cells.…”

Role of TNF-α but not NGF in murine hyperalgesia induced by parasitic infection

“…Despite the fact that MCs have been shown to induce hyperalgesia through the release of inflammatory mediators, it should be noted that pretreatment with 48 / 80 is able to block hyperalgesia due to products released by both MCs and sympathetic terminals (Andreev et al 1995), which contribute to the sensitization of nociceptors (Amann et al 1995). Since MCs store and release NGF (Leon et al 1994), and since NGF induces MC degranulation (Bruni et al 1982), it is highly likely that products released by MCs, including TNF-, might affect thermal response. In addition, this mechanism may be influenced and/or associated with time, dose and topographic distribution of NGF / MC activity.…”