Mast cell activation disorders (MCAD) encompass a wide range of immune-mediated conditions characterized by episodic or chronic mast cell activation, leading to various systemic inflammatory symptoms. These conditions include clonal disorders like mastocytosis and non-clonal conditions such as idiopathic mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). The heterogeneity of clinical presentations and overlap with other immune and inflammatory disorders complicate diagnosis and management. Despite increased recognition, MCAD often remains underdiagnosed, impacting patient quality of life significantly. Recent studies have provided insights into the cellular mechanisms and inflammatory mediators involved in mast cell activation. However, there remain significant knowledge gaps in understanding the complexity of these disorders, especially in terms of diagnostics and comprehensive patient management. This Research Topic seeks to address these gaps by integrating insights from clinical experience, mechanistic studies, and translational research.

This Research Topic aims to advance the understanding of mast cell activation, refine diagnostic approaches, and develop evidence-based management strategies across diverse patient populations, including pediatric cohorts. The goals include elucidating the fundamental mechanisms driving mast cell-related inflammation, improving diagnostic criteria and techniques for MCAS, and developing strategies to address overdiagnosis. Another goal is exploring the neurological and neuroimmune components of mast cell activation to uncover novel brain-immune interactions and neuropsychological implications. Furthermore, this Research Topic encourages translational research that connects basic science with clinical practice, including studies on potential biomarkers, computational modeling informed by experimental or clinical data, and novel therapeutic interventions.

To gather further insights into the complex nature of mast cell activation disorders, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

-Mechanisms of mast cell-driven inflammation and systemic effects
-Diagnostic challenges and novel diagnostic tools for MCAS
-Strategies to reduce overdiagnosis and improve patient care
-Neurological and neuroimmune aspects of mast cell activation
-Translational research bridging basic science and clinical practice
-Innovative therapeutic interventions and patient-centered management
-Interplay between mast cell disorders and comorbid conditions, such as neuroinflammation or allergic disorders

Dr Julien Rossignol has received research funding, consultancy fees, and honoraria for lectures and advisory board participation from Blueprint Medicines, as well as research funding from MSD and Novartis; Prof. Olivier Hermine is a co-founder and Scientific Director of AB Science and has received research funding, consultancy fees, and honoraria for lectures and advisory board participation from Blueprint Medicines and Novartis; Prof. Vito Sabato is a speaker/advisor for Blueprint Medicines Corporation and Cogent; from Blueprint Medicines Corporation, Cogent, Novartis, Telios and receives research funding from Blueprint Medicines Corporation

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Mast cell activation disorders: Mechanisms, diagnostics, and translational approaches