Which cells produce histamine in a type 1 hypersensitivity reaction?

In a type 1 hypersensitivity reaction, mast cells play a crucial role as they are the primary cells responsible for the production and release of histamine. Histamine is a biogenic amine that contributes significantly to the allergic response by increasing vascular permeability, promoting bronchoconstriction, and causing smooth muscle contraction. When an allergen triggers the immune response in a sensitized individual, IgE antibodies bind to mast cells, leading to their activation. Upon re-exposure to the same allergen, these mast cells degranulate and release histamine, along with other mediators, which contributes to the rapid onset of allergic symptoms.

The other cell types mentioned do not have the same functions related to histamine production in the context of type 1 hypersensitivity. Lymphocytes are primarily involved in the adaptive immune response, macrophages engage in phagocytosis and antigen presentation, and neutrophils are part of the innate immune response, mainly responsible for addressing bacterial infections. Hence, the dominant role of mast cells in producing histamine is fundamental to understanding the mechanisms of type 1 hypersensitivity reactions.