Everything about Basophil Granulocyte totally explained
Basophils are the least common of the
granulocytes, representing about 0.01% to 0.3% of circulating
leukocytes (white blood cells). They contain large
cytoplasmic granules which obscure the
cell nucleus under the
microscope. However, when
unstained, the nucleus is visible and it usually has 2 s. The
mast cell, a
cell in
tissues, has many similar characteristics. For example, both cell types store
histamine, a chemical that's secreted by the cells when stimulated in certain ways (histamine causes some of the symptoms of an
allergic reaction). Like all circulating granulocytes, basophils can be recruited out of the
blood into a tissue when needed.
Secretions
When activated, basophils
degranulate to release
histamine,
proteoglycans (for example
heparin and
chondroitin), and
proteolytic enzymes (for example
elastase and
lysophospholipase). They also secrete
lipid mediators like
leukotrienes, and several
cytokines. Histamine and proteoglycans are pre-stored in the cell's granules while the other secreted substances are newly generated. Each of these substances contributes to inflammation. Recent evidence suggests that basophils are an important source of the cytokine,
interleukin-4, perhaps more important than
T cells. Interleukin-4 is considered one of the critical cytokines in the development of allergies and the production of
IgE antibody by the immune system. There are other substances that can activate basophils to secrete which suggests that these cells have other roles in inflammation.
Basopenia (a low basophil count) is difficult to demonstrate as the normal basophil count is so low; it has been reported in association with
autoimmune urticaria
(a chronic itching condition). Basophilia is also uncommon but may be seen in some forms of leukaemia or lymphoma.
Further Information
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