Mast cell tryptase is a serine protease predominantly stored in the secretory granules of mast cells, released during degranulation in allergic, inflammatory, or anaphylactic responses. It exists as a tetramer, primarily composed of β-tryptase isoforms (β1 and β2), with α-tryptase being a minor, less active form. Tryptase serves as a key mediator in immune responses, contributing to tissue remodeling, inflammation, and pathogen defense.
Antibodies targeting mast cell tryptase are critical tools for research and diagnostics. They enable the identification and quantification of tryptase in tissues or biological fluids, aiding in the diagnosis of mast cell-related disorders such as mastocytosis, systemic anaphylaxis, or chronic allergic conditions. In immunohistochemistry, these antibodies help localize mast cells in tissue samples, distinguishing normal from pathological mast cell activation. Elevated serum tryptase levels (>11.4 ng/mL) often indicate acute mast cell activation, making tryptase immunoassays essential in postmortem assessments of fatal anaphylaxis.
Additionally, tryptase antibodies are used to study mast cell biology, including their role in tumor microenvironments and fibrotic diseases. Monoclonal antibodies, like AA1 or G3. specifically detect β-tryptase, while others may target shared epitopes. Their specificity and sensitivity make them indispensable in both clinical settings and experimental research exploring mast cell pathophysiology.