What is the Difference Between Basophil and Eosinophil?

Basophils and eosinophils are both types of white blood cells, specifically granulocytes, that play a role in the body's immune response. However, they have distinct characteristics and functions:

Basophils:

• Have an S-shaped multi-lobed nucleus.
• Cytoplasm stains blue in basic stains.
• Make up 0.5% or less of leukocytes.
• Act to initiate an inflammatory response in the body.
• Are the predominant source of IL-4 in allergen- and helminth parasite-activated PBMCs.
• Have a role in antigen presentation for helminth infection.

Eosinophils:

• Have a two-lobed nucleus.
• Cytoplasm stains red in acid stains.
• Make up 1-5% of leukocytes.
• Provide an important defense against parasites by phagocytosis and produce antihistamines.
• Produce cytotoxic granule proteins as their major effector function.
• Express a range of cytokines, but IL-5 is specific for eosinophil development and differentiation.

In summary, basophils are involved in initiating inflammatory responses, while eosinophils play a crucial role in defending against parasites and producing antihistamines. They have different nucleus shapes and staining colors, and their abundance in leukocytes varies.

Comparative Table: Basophil vs Eosinophil

Basophils and eosinophils are both types of white blood cells (leukocytes) that play roles in the immune system. Here are the main differences between them:

Both basophils and eosinophils are granulocytes, which means they have granules in their cytoplasm that contain various enzymes and proteins. These granules play a role in the cells' function in the immune response.