An intravital microscopic model for mast cell-dependent inflammation in the hamster cheek pouch

Topical antigen challenge in cheek pouches of immunized hamsters led to an acute inflammatory reaction which was characterized by intravital microscopy. The response consisted of short-lasting arteriolar spasm, followed by leakage of plasma, vasodilation, and accumulation of leucocytes. Several observations indicated that the reaction was due to mast cell activation. Thus, a very similar inflammatory response was seen after challenge with compound 48/80, and both antigen and compound 48/80 degranulated the numerous mast cells present in the cheek pouch. In addition, fluorescein-labelled antigen bound specifically to mast cells in cheek pouches of immunized animals, also suggesting the presence of mast cell-fixed antigen-specific antibodies, possibly immunoglobulin E. However, although antigen and compound 48/80 caused similar microvascular responses, cross-desensitization experiments indicated that the two stimuli activated mast cells via different mechanisms. The histamine antagonist mepyramine, which abolished plasma leakage induced by exogenous histamine, substantially inhibited the increase of microvascular permeability evoked by antigen or compound 48/80, but did not appear to affect the vasospasm and leucocyte accumulation. It is concluded that the hamster cheek pouch may be a most useful tool for investigation of dynamic microvascular events during allergic mast cell-dependent inflammation.