What is a function of basophils?

What is a function of basophils?

• A. Engulf bacteria
• B. IgE mediated
• C. Present antigens to T cells
• D. Release histamine during allergic reactions

Answer: (D)

Basophils primarily function by releasing histamine during allergic reactions. They are granulocytes with histamine-containing granules and have receptors for IgE. When an allergen cross-links IgE on the basophil surface, the cell degranulates, spilling histamine and other mediators. Histamine then causes vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, leading to the redness, swelling, and itching seen in allergies and helping recruit other immune cells to the site. While basophils can participate in other immune activities, their defining role in this context is mediator release rather than engulfing bacteria or presenting antigens to T cells.

Basophils primarily function by releasing histamine during allergic reactions. They are granulocytes with histamine-containing granules and have receptors for IgE. When an allergen cross-links IgE on the basophil surface, the cell degranulates, spilling histamine and other mediators. Histamine then causes vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, leading to the redness, swelling, and itching seen in allergies and helping recruit other immune cells to the site. While basophils can participate in other immune activities, their defining role in this context is mediator release rather than engulfing bacteria or presenting antigens to T cells.