Kidney mast cells, IgE and release of inflammatory mediators capable of altering renal haemodynamics.

Collagenase-dispersed human, guinea pig and rat kidney cells, actively or passively sensitized with IgE or IgG subclasses, released histamine, leukotriene C4 and thromboxane B2 on challenge with the specific antigen or antisera to mast-cell-sensitizing immunoglobulins. A similar reaction occurred in the isolated perfused kidney of sensitized guinea pigs, which additionally showed vasoconstriction. Mast cells were identified in cell suspensions and tissue sections. These findings provide support for the possible role of IgE and mast cells in renal pathophysiology.