Mast Cells in Rupture-Prone Areas of Human Coronary Atheromas Produce and Store TNF-α

Abstract

This study demonstrates the presence of mast cells with TNF-alpha-containing secretory granules, particularly in the shoulder region of human coronary atheromas. By releasing their TNF-alpha, mast cells may play an active role in the inflammatory reactions of these rupture-prone areas of atheromas.