Mast cell purification protocols

Abstract

Studying a tissue-specifi c mast cell can be of particular benefi t given the heterogeneity that is known to exist among mast cells isolated or developed from different sources. Methods for isolating mast cells from a variety of tissues have been in existence for a number of years although, over time, these methodologies have been refi ned. We have had considerable experience studying mast cells isolated from human lung tissue. It is for this reason that, in this chapter, we provide detailed methods for the isolation and purifi cation of human lung mast cells. However, it should be noted that the methods that are described in this chapter are generally applicable to the isolation of mast cells from different tissues and this will also be discussed.