What role do mast cells play in asthma?

Mast cells play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of asthma, particularly by releasing histamine, which leads to bronchospasm. When an allergen or irritant is encountered, mast cells become activated and release histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Histamine is a potent bronchoconstrictor that causes the smooth muscles of the airways to constrict, resulting in difficulty breathing and airway obstruction, which are characteristic features of an asthma attack.

This mechanism highlights the inflammatory nature of asthma, as the release of histamine contributes not only to bronchospasm but also to other symptoms such as increased mucus production and airway swelling. Understanding this role of mast cells in asthma is critical for developing treatment strategies that target these inflammatory pathways, such as using antihistamines or other medications that stabilize mast cell function.

The other options describe functions not associated with mast cells; for example, maintaining lung elasticity and producing surfactant are roles primarily associated with alveolar cells and other lung structures, while tissue repair mechanisms involve different cellular processes beyond the immediate function of mast cells in allergic responses.