Human basophils release the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 following stimulation with α-melanocyte–stimulating hormone

Abstract

Basophils play a crucial role in TH2 cell–type immune responses, including allergy, atopy, and asthma. Additionally, autoimmune skin diseases (eg, chronic spontaneous urticaria and bullous pemphigoid) are at least partially driven by basophils because of their capacity to readily release IL-4 and IL-13, as well as histamine, leukotriene C4, and various other proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. We previously reported that the neuropeptide α-melanocyte–stimulating hormone (α-MSH) has anti-inflammatory effects on basophil function.