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Basophils play a significant role in the immune response, particularly in allergic reactions and responses to parasitic infections. They are a type of white blood cell that is part of the body's immune system, and they contain granules rich in histamine and other mediators. When the body encounters allergens, basophils are activated and release these mediators, which contribute to inflammation and other symptoms associated with allergies, such as itching, swelling, and increased mucus production. This function is especially important in acute and chronic allergic reactions, where basophils can amplify the response and contribute to the overall hypersensitivity reaction.

While basophils are involved in other immune functions, their primary association lies in the context of allergies, distinguishing them from other types of immune responses. For example, bacterial defenses and antiviral responses are primarily handled by other white blood cells, such as neutrophils and lymphocytes, respectively. Similarly, cellular immunity against cancer is mainly mediated by T cells rather than basophils, further highlighting the specialized role that basophils play in allergy and hypersensitivity rather than these other immune responses.