Final answer:
Mast cells can indeed bind the Fc portion of IgE, making this statement true. This binding is fundamental in allergic responses, leading to mast cell degranulation and release of inflammatory mediators when an allergen is present.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that mast cells can bind the Fc portion of IgE is true. IgE is bound to mast cells via its Fc portion, which allows these cells to play a crucial role in allergic reactions. When an allergen, such as peanut proteins, enters the body of a person with a peanut allergy, it binds to the allergen-specific IgE on the surface of mast cells.
This interaction causes cross-linking of the bound IgE molecules, prompting the mast cells to degranulate. Degranulation releases various inflammatory mediators, such as histamine, leading to symptoms of allergy. In severe cases, this can escalate to anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening systemic allergic reaction.