Notch2 signaling in mast cell development and distribution in the intestine.

Notch signaling controls cell-fate specification events in various types of blood cells, and it further regulates the function of particular blood cells. Recent studies have identified the role of Notch signaling as a determinant of mast cell fate from bone marrow progenitors and mast cell maturation towards mucosal type rather than connective tissue type. Furthermore, Notch2 has functional properties for immune defense against Strongyloides venezuelensis through properly distributing intestinal mast cells. The goal of this chapter is to provide the researchers with the comprehensive protocols to examine the functions of Notch signaling in mast cells both in vitro and in vivo.