Basophils in anaphylaxis

Human basophils are the least common (and arguably the least well understood) peripheral blood leukocyte. Their roles in normal physiology and homeostasis are unknown, but their ability to bind IgE, to release histamine, leukotrienes, and other mediators, and to move into extravascular tissues suggest that they may participate in allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Although basophils share many salient features with mast cells, it is now widely accepted that these are two distinct cell types. Recent evidence from murine models of anaphylaxis indicates a role for basophils in some situations, but if (and, if so, how) basophils contribute to anaphylaxis in humans is as yet undetermined.