THE ROLE OF MAST CELLS IN CARCINOGENESIS (LITERATURE REVIEW)

Mast cells are an important link in the immune system. They are involved in many pathological processes such as stress, inflammation, autoimmune processes and carcinogenesis. The purpose of the review is to summarize the data on the role of mast cells in carcinogenesis. Materials and methods. Review of available literature sources published in Elibrary and PubMed. Results. Tumor growth in the body is accompanied by immune system dysfunction and mast cell response. Mast cells are able to stimulate tumour growth through the secretion of proteases, angiogenic and growth factors, and at the same time have a tumour suppressive effect. The response of the mast cell population depends on the type of tissue from which the tumor is developing, the speed and stage of the process, the localization of the mast cells, and the combination of pro- and anti-tumor factors. During tumour development and growth, total degranulation of mast cells occurs. In addition, mast cells in normal and tumor tissue differ in structure. This article provides information on the role of mast cells in carcinogenesis. Conclusion. Thus, mast cells on the one hand positively affect tumor growth through the synthesis of proteases, growth and angiogenic factors, and on the other hand, act as inhibitors of malignant growth. The response of mastocytes directly depends on the tissue in which tumour develops, on its type and degree of malignancy, the stage of pathological process, localization of mast cells and the degree of their activation, as well as the total balance of pro- and antitumour effects.