What is one of the roles of histamines released by immune cells during inflammation?

Prepare for the Texas AandM University Nutrition for Health and Health Care exam. Our study materials feature flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations to enhance your understanding and increase your success rate.

Histamines play a crucial role during the inflammatory response, primarily by promoting vasodilation. When immune cells release histamines, they lead to the dilation of arterioles, which increases blood flow to the affected area. This enhanced blood flow is essential for delivering immune cells, nutrients, and oxygen to tissues that are experiencing inflammation. Such an increase in blood flow facilitates the healing process and aids in the removal of waste products from the affected area.

Additionally, histamines contribute to the permeability of blood vessels, allowing proteins and other immune components to exit the bloodstream and enter the tissues, where they can act on sites of injury or infection. This mechanism is vital for the inflammatory response, as it helps to recruit more immune cells and initiate repair processes effectively.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy