Mast cells: “central regulatory hub” of neuro-endocrine-immune dysregulation in vitiligo

1

Mast cells (MCs) are innate immune cells that mediate interactions between the neuroendocrine and immune systems.
2

Vitiligo is a complex disorder with multiple pathogenic factors, including genetic susceptibility and neurogenic components.
3

Current models of vitiligo pathogenesis do not fully account for the role of mast cells in melanocyte dysfunction.
4

Therapeutic agents targeting mast cells, such as ketotifen and imatinib, have been clinically implemented for vitiligo.
5

Mast cells exhibit bidirectional interactions with neural and endocrine systems, influencing melanocyte function.

Frontiers In Immunology

by Chen Zhang, Zhanhong Cao, Yuxin Bai, Xuanxuan Zhu, Yue Shen, Zhenhua Wang, Jincai Li, Wenjian Wang, Meng Zhang
June 26, 2026

1