Histamine

∞ generated and posted on 2016.03.19 ∞

Molecule playing a variety of roles in physiology, especially contribution to inflammatory responses but also playing roles in the regulation of the gastrointestinal tract as well as serving as a neurotransmitter.

Histamine is released by both mast cells and basophils, both of which are leukocytes. The primary local impact of histamine as part of an inflammatory response is an increase in the permeability of capillaries.

The tearing and runny nose associated with allergies is a consequence of histamine and hence the employment of antihistamines to combat the symptoms of allergies.


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