The second is to respond to parasite infection. They do this specifically by interacting with the Fc region of the [[Immunoglobulins|IgE]] class of antibody. When the IgE then comes into subsequent contact with antigen this causes the mast cells and basophils to degranulate. This causes the release enzymes and vasoactive substances that can result in a high level of mucus secretion and smooth muscle contraction. As the granules contain a much greater concentration of these peptides, the degranulation of Mast cells and Basophils creates a much more powerful response than that by neutrophils alone. These cells also produce factors that influence local host cell physiology
+
The second is to respond to parasite infection. They do this specifically by interacting with the Fc region of the [[Immunoglobulins|IgE]] class of antibody. When the IgE then comes into contact with antigen, Fc receptors on the surface of the Mast cells and basophils can interact with the antibody which causes the mast cells and basophils to degranulate. This causes the release enzymes and vasoactive substances that can result in a high level of mucus secretion and smooth muscle contraction. As the granules contain a much greater concentration of these peptides, the degranulation of Mast cells and Basophils creates a much more powerful response than that by neutrophils alone. These cells also produce factors that influence local host cell physiology
and various mediators that increase the ratio of phagocyte to microbe (in particular [[Cytokines|cytokines]]).
and various mediators that increase the ratio of phagocyte to microbe (in particular [[Cytokines|cytokines]]).