Final answer:
Mast cells can indeed bind the Fc portion of IgE, which is true. This binding is crucial for the allergic response, as it leads to mast cell degranulation and release of mediators of allergy when allergens bind to the cell-bound IgE.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that mast cells can bind the Fc portion of IgE is true. IgE antibodies have a unique structure characterized by an Fc region that binds strongly to an IgE-specific Fc receptor on the surface of mast cells. When an individual is exposed to an allergen, the allergen-specific IgE antibodies bind to the mast cells via their Fc receptor. On subsequent exposures to the same allergen, the cross-linking of the IgE on the mast cells' surface results in degranulation. During degranulation, mast cells release various chemical mediators, such as histamine, that cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction, including the possibility of anaphylaxis, which is a potentially life-threatening condition.