Basophils and mast cells: Underdog in immune regulation?

Mast cells and basophilic granulocytes have recently been recognized as potent immunomodulatory cells. Whereas these cells originally were described as potent cells that release their pro-inflammatory contents (i.e. histamine) unconstrained after activation, nowadays this process is considered to be much more subtle. Especially, via the release of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines basophils and mast cells now can steer an immune response. Recently, it has become evident that at least in murine models basophils are crucial for the initial induction of a Th2 response in immunologically naive mouse.