histamine

American  

[his-tuh-meen, -min] / ˈhɪs təˌmin, -mɪn /

Also histamin

noun

1. Biochemistry, Physiology. a heterocyclic amine, C 5 H 9 N 3 , released by mast cells when tissue is injured or in allergic and inflammatory reactions, causing dilation of small blood vessels and smooth muscle contraction.

2. Pharmacology. a commercial form of this compound, obtained from histidine and used chiefly in the diagnosis of gastric and circulatory functions.

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histamine British  

/ -mɪn, ˈhɪstəˌmiːn, ˌhɪstəˈmɪnɪk /

noun

1. an amine formed from histidine and released by the body tissues in allergic reactions, causing irritation. It also stimulates gastric secretions, dilates blood vessels, and contracts smooth muscle. Formula: C 5 H 9 N 3 See also antihistamine

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histamine Scientific  

/ hĭs′tə-mēn′ /

1. An organic compound found widely in animals and plants that in humans and other mammals is released as part of the body's immune response, causing physiological changes including dilation of the blood vessels, contraction of smooth muscle (as in the airways), and increased gastric acid secretion. The itching and sneezing typical of respiratory allergies are caused by the release of histamine. Chemical formula: C ₅ H ₉ N ₃

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Other Word Forms

• histaminic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of histamine

First recorded in 1910–15; hist(idine) + -amine

Example Sentences

Histamine can dilate blood vessels in the body, which might trigger headache.

From BBC • Nov. 20, 2023

Histamine can lead to inflammation and can be a problem when we can't break it down properly, and levels get too high.

From Salon • Feb. 25, 2023

Histamine promotes local vasodilation and capillary permeability while heparin inhibits clotting.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015

Histamine induces the Triple Response of Lewis, an initial red line on the skin, followed by a flare around the line and then finally a weal on the skin.

From Scientific American • Jan. 30, 2013

Histamine, one of the body's cellular hormones, will do the job, but it is so powerful that it must be used with great care.

From Time Magazine Archive