Analysis of Tie2 function in mast cells

Excerpt

Mast cells are most widely acknowledged as a central mediator of allergic reactions. Recent literature has also implicated mast cells in a variety of biological and pathological conditions, spurring an interest in the genetic regulation of mast cell function and development. In a survey of global gene expression, we identified higher Tie2 mRNA expression in bone marrow derived mast cells (BMMC) in relation to a Lin^-Sca1⁺cKit⁺ (LSK) bone marrow population. Tie2 (gene name Tek) is a receptor tyrosine kinase more commonly known for its expression on endothelial cells and a receptor for angiopoietins including Ang1 and 2. Our objective is to explore the function of Tie2 in mast cell development and biology. …