In a late phase reaction to an allergen, what do mast cells release?

In the late phase reaction to an allergen, mast cells primarily release cytokines. This phase typically occurs several hours after the initial exposure to the allergen. During this time, mast cells, along with other immune cells, secrete cytokines, which are signaling proteins that help orchestrate the immune response. These cytokines play a crucial role in the recruitment and activation of various inflammatory cells, including eosinophils and T cells, contributing to the persistence of allergic inflammation and symptoms associated with allergic reactions.

Cytokines are essential for promoting the inflammatory pathway that can lead to tissue damage and prolonged symptoms, as they help to sustain the immune response longer than the immediate release of histamines, which primarily occurs during the early phase of allergic reactions. Understanding this mechanism is vital for managing allergies and developing targeted therapies.