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Which cells store and release histamine during an inflammatory response?
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inflammation
The main function of complement proteins is to aid in the destruction of pathogens by piercing their outer membranes (cell lysis) or by making them more attractive to phagocytic cells such as macrophages (a process known as opsonization). Some complement components also promote inflammation by stimulating cells to release histamine and by attracting phagocytic cells to the site of infection.
During an inflammatory response, histamine is primarily stored and released by two types of immune cells:
- Mast cells: These are tissue-resident cells found throughout the body, particularly beneath the skin, near mucous membranes, and around blood vessels. They store histamine in coarse cytoplasmic granules and release it upon stimulation, such as during injury or allergic reactions.123
- Basophils: These are a type of circulating white blood cell (granulocyte) that also synthesize and store histamine in their granules. Like mast cells, they release their stores of histamine when triggered by specific immune signals, such as the binding of IgE antibodies to their surface receptors.435
Once released, histamine acts as a key chemical mediator that triggers vasodilation and increases vascular permeability, allowing immune cells and plasma proteins to reach the site of injury or infection to facilitate healing.53