BASOPHILS Meaning and
Definition
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Basophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune response of the body. Classified as granulocytes, which are white blood cells that contain granules in their cytoplasm, basophils make up a small percentage of the total white blood cell count, typically comprising only 0.5 to 1% of the population.
Basophils are best known for their involvement in allergic reactions. When an allergen enters the body, basophils are stimulated to release chemical mediators, such as histamine, heparin, and cytokines. Histamine is particularly significant as it promotes inflammation, increases blood flow to the site of injury or allergic response, and causes blood vessels to become more permeable, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of allergies, such as itching, sneezing, and swelling.
Another essential function of basophils is their participation in the innate immune response against parasites. These cells possess receptors that can recognize and bind to the surface of parasites, leading to the release of toxic substances to combat the invader.
Basophils are produced in the bone marrow, like other blood cells, and are released into the bloodstream. Their lifespan is relatively short, typically ranging from a few hours to a few days, after which they undergo apoptosis (programmed cell death). Monitoring the levels of basophils in blood tests can provide valuable insights into immune system disorders, infections, and allergic conditions.
Common Misspellings for BASOPHILS
Etymology of BASOPHILS
The word "basophils" has its roots in Greek. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "baso" meaning "deep" or "base", and "philos" meaning "loving" or "affectionate". Therefore, "basophils" can be understood as cells that have an affinity for basic or base-loving substances.
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