Histamine (gene name)
Histamine is a key mediator of acute inflammation including allergic reactions.
Expression
- cells that express: mostly mast cells; also basophils, platelets
- tissue distribution: wide distribution in tissues, especially in connective tissue near vessels
- temporal expression: stored in granules and released in response to a variety of stimuli, including:
- physical injury such as trauma, cold, or heat
- immune reactions involving antibody binding to mast cells
- complement fragments C3a and C5a (anaphylatoxins)
- histamine-releasing signals from leukocytes
- neuropeptides (ie substance P)
- cytokines such as IL-1 and IL-8
Function
Histamine is released by a variety of cells in response to tissue injury. It binds to receptors on nearby capillaries and venules, causing vasodilation and increased permeability.
- causes arteriole dilation
- increases venule permeability
- induces endothelial activation
- induces bronchioconstriction
Interactions and Signalling
- receptor: binds to H1 receptors on endothelial cells
- antihistamines block H1 receptor
Role in Disease
- if any
Structure
-
derived from histidine
Gene and Processing
- PubMed ref: here
- other info