Mast/stem cell growth factor receptor kit (c-kit), a cytokine receptor found on mast cells that is activated by SCF, was identified as a critical molecular component in NF1-deficient mast cells and tumours.25,76,125 One strategy for targeting tumours with mast cell components such as cNFs and pNFs is imatinib-mediated inhibition of c-kit. The gene discussed is NF1; the disease is neoplasm.