Basophil granulocyte

Basophils are the least common of the granulocytes. They contain large cytoplasmic granules which obscure the nucleus under the microscope. However when the nucleus is visible it is seen to have 2 lobes. In tissues mast cellsareare the equivalent cell type. These cells play a major part in the inflammatory process, having a rapid response to specific allergens and releasing heparin, histamine and serotonin after sensitization with antibodies called IgE. Especially mast cells serve as a first line of defense against invading pathogens. The full purpose of a basophil is still not known, although it seems to play a major part in heavy metal poisoning