which cells resemble basophils and are found in connective tissue close to small blood vessels
which cells resemble basophils and are found in connective tissue close to small blood vessels
Answered
Mast cells are tissue-resident immune cells that closely resemble basophils in both structure and function.
They are predominantly located in connective tissues, especially near small blood vessels, nerves, and mucosal surfaces.
Mast cells and basophils share a common origin from bone marrow progenitors and both express the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI), which is crucial for their activation during allergic responses .
Upon activation, mast cells release granules containing histamine, heparin, and various proteases, contributing to inflammatory responses .
Unlike basophils, which circulate in the bloodstream, mast cells are long-lived and reside in tissues, allowing them to participate in chronic inflammatory processes and tissue remodeling .
Their strategic positioning near blood vessels enables mast cells to respond rapidly to injury or infection, playing a pivotal role in the body’s defense mechanisms .
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