Associated TP28: Examining the role of mast cells in bullous pemphigoid

Mast cells are tissue-resident granulocytes that are preferentially found in connective tissues and beneath epithelial surfaces. There is growing evidence that mast cells exert crucial functions in autoimmune diseases.

Here, we will investigate the role of mast cells and mast cell-specific mediators in bullous pemphigoid using various transgenic mouse models. We will particularly focus on interactions between complement proteins and mast cells in disease pathogenesis.