| Summary: | The relationship between mast cells (MCs) and pregnancy is a controversially discussed topic. The presence and quantitative distribution of mast cells in the reproductive tract was confirmed in different species. A phase-dependent oscillation of mast cells during the hormonal regulated oestrous cycle was suggested and on this basis, MCs were assumed to play a positive role in implantation because of their ability to secrete histamine. At later pregnancy stages, they were proposed to have rather a negative role, as their exacerbated activation is associated with pre-term delivery. The present review is intended to provide an overview about uterine MCs that bring to light their unexpected relevance for reproductive processes.
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