Targeting Janus kinase 3 in mast cells prevents immediate hypersensitivity reactions and anaphylaxis

Abstract

Janus kinase 3 (JAK3), a member of the Janus family protein-tyrosine kinases, is expressed in mast cells, and its enzymatic activity is enhanced by IgE receptor/FcεRI cross-linking. Selective inhibition of JAK3 in mast cells with 4-(4'-hydroxylphenyl)-amino-6,7-dimethoxyquinazoline) (WHI-P131) blocked the phospholipase C activation, calcium mobilization, and activation of microtubule-associated protein kinase after IgE receptor/FcεRI cross- linking. Treatment of IgE-sensitized rodent as well as human mast cells with WHI-P131 effectively inhibited the activation-associated morphological changes, degranulation, and proinflammatory mediator release after specific antigen challenge without affecting the functional integrity of the distal secretory machinery. In vivo administration of the JAK3 inhibitor WHI-P131 prevented mast cell degranulation and development of cutaneous as well as systemic fatal anaphylaxis in mice at nontoxic dose levels. Thus, JAK3 plays a pivotal role in IgE receptor/FcεRI-mediated mast cell responses, and targeting JAK3 with a specific inhibitor, such as WHI-P131, may provide the basis for new and effective treatment as well as prevention programs for mast cell-mediated allergic reactions.