Figure 2.

This figure demonstrates the pivotal position of IgE and mast cells in the initiation of the asthma inflammatory cascade. Mast cells can interact with B cells which can both interact with Th2 type T cells , an interaction mediated by cell surface cognate molecules and resulting in IgE class switching in B cells and cytokine expression. This can lead to endothelial activation allowing the emigration of activated eosinophils into airway tissue. Eosinophil-derived products (including major basic protein, cytokines, chemokines, and leukotrienes) can influence airway remodeling by inducing changes in airway cells such as epithelium, fibroblasts and smooth muscles.