Function & Kinetics of Granulocytes

Basophils as Mediators of Inflammatory Responses

  • Basophils serve as mediators of inflammatory responses, especially hypersensitivity reactions.
  • IgE binds to the membrane receptors on basophils and degranulation is initiated.
  • The enzymes released are vasoactive, bronchorestrictive and chemotactic (especially for eosinophils), so basophils seem to play a role in inducing and maintaining allergic reactions.
  • The granules of basophils contain histamine, heparin and peroxidase.
  • After degranulation occurs, basophils can synthesize more granules.
  • The release of large numbers of these granules can cause anaphylactic shock and death.

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