Basophils and mast cells also are central to immediate or type 1 hypersensitivity. in some individuals
substances such as certain pollen proteins or specific
proteins in food are allergenic, that is, elicit production of
specific ige antibodies, which then bind to receptors on
mast cells and immigrating basophils. upon subsequent
exposure, the allergen combines with the receptor-bound
ige molecules, causing them to cross-link and aggregate
on the cell surfaces and triggering rapid exocytosis of
the cytoplasmic granules. release of the inflammatory
mediators in this manner can result in bronchial asthma,
cutaneous hives, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, or allergic gastroenteritis.