MAST CELL -
Noun: A large cell in connective tissue that is vital in the immune system . Large numbers of mast cells line the nose. Mast cells contain a variety of chemicals, including histamine, that are particularly effective in destroying parasites. Antibodies latch onto these large Mast cells and when a micro-organism which is a matching antigen to the antibody is encountered, this triggers the mast cell to spill out its chemicals and disable the invader. In a cold or flu for example, the histamine also boosts blood flow to the nose and causes inflammation and congestion. In turn this stimulates membranes to produce lots of mucous to wash away the dead micro-organisms and cells they have killed. So the inflammation and mucous is all a natural defense mechanism in our immune response.

German - masten = fatten

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