Mast Cells: A Potential Breakthrough in Fighting Bacterial Infections

Scientists in the US and Germany have discovered that mast cells, a type of immune cell, can break down endothelin, a poison produced during bacterial infections. Experiments with genetically modified mast cells in mice showed promising results, with treated mice surviving infections that were fatal to untreated ones. This research could lead to significant breakthroughs in treating severe bacterial infections, especially for patients weakened by surgery or chronic illness. If successful in humans, mast cells could become a vital tool in combating bacterial infections.

What is the newly discovered role of mast cells according to the scientists?

• They attack viruses directly.

• They cause allergic reactions.

• They break down endothelin, a poison from bacterial infections.

• They produce antibodies.

In the experiment, what was the outcome for the mice that received genetically modified mast cells?

• They developed new infections.

• They all died from the infection.

• Most of them survived the bacterial infection.

• They showed no change compared to the control group.

What was the purpose of injecting mast cells into the white mice that survived?

• To test for allergic reactions.

• To increase their lifespan.

• To reverse the effects of the bacteria.

• To make them immune to future infections.

What potential breakthrough do scientists hope to achieve with mast cells?

• Eliminating all allergies.

• Treating severe bacterial infections in humans.

• Developing a universal vaccine.

• Curing all types of cancer.

What is the significance of endothelin in the context of bacterial infections?

• It is unrelated to infections.

• It helps in the healing process.

• It is a poison that can be life-threatening.

• It is a harmless byproduct.