Figure 1
From: Neuro-inflammation, blood-brain barrier, seizures and autism
Mast cells are located perivascularly close to nerve endings and regulate blood-brain barrier permeability. Upon stimulation by allergic and non-immune triggers (e.g, CRH, neurotensin, mercury, mitochondrial (mt) DNA), mast cells release vasodilatory and inflammatory molecules (IL-6, mtDNA, TNF and VEGF), some of which increase the expression of vascular endothelial cell adhesion molecules (VCAMs) and permit exit of circulating lymphocytes in the brain. Focal brain inflammation could then contribute to or exacerbate seizures.