Which white blood cell releases heparin and histamine during the early inflammatory response?

The white blood cell that releases heparin and histamine during the early inflammatory response is the basophil. Basophils play a crucial role in the body's defense mechanisms, particularly in allergic reactions and inflammation.

When tissue injury occurs, basophils migrate to the site and release histamine, which increases blood vessel permeability, allowing other immune cells to access the affected area more readily. Additionally, heparin is released to prevent blood clotting, facilitating blood flow and allowing immune cells to reach the area of inflammation. This response is vital for initiating the inflammatory process, helping to contain and resolve infections or injuries.

Understanding the specific functions of basophils highlights their importance in both allergic responses and innate immunity. Other white blood cells, such as neutrophils, eosinophils, and B lymphocytes, have distinctly different roles in the immune response, focusing respectively on phagocytosis, combating parasitic infections, and producing antibodies.