Related Experiment Videos
Histamine production by Haemophilus
1Institute of Microbiology, Semmelweis University Medical School, Budapest, Hungary.
Abstract:
Eight Haemophilus influenzae and four Haemophilus parainfluenzae strains, all freshly isolated from patients, were examined for histamine production. Histamine was produced by all the H. influenzae (0.06 microgram-2.6 micrograms/100 ml) and by two of the H. parainfluenzae strains (46.5-47.9 micrograms/100 ml). It is concluded that histamine which plays an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic aspecific respiratory diseases, may derive not only from degranulation of mast cells, but also produced by Haemophilus.
Insights
Histamine production was observed in Haemophilus influenzae and Haemophilus parainfluenzae strains isolated from patients. This suggests Haemophilus bacteria may be a source of histamine in respiratory diseases.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Histamine is a key mediator in the pathogenesis of chronic non-specific respiratory diseases.
- Traditionally, histamine in respiratory conditions is attributed to mast cell degranulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of Haemophilus species to produce histamine.
- To explore an alternative source of histamine in respiratory disease pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of Haemophilus influenzae and Haemophilus parainfluenzae strains from clinical samples.
- Quantification of histamine production by the isolated bacterial strains.
Main Results:
- All tested Haemophilus influenzae strains produced histamine, ranging from 0.06 to 2.6 micrograms/100 ml.
- Two of the four Haemophilus parainfluenzae strains also produced histamine, at levels of 46.5-47.9 micrograms/100 ml.
Conclusions:
- Haemophilus species, including H. influenzae and H. parainfluenzae, are capable of producing histamine.
- Bacterial histamine production by Haemophilus may contribute to the pathogenesis of chronic respiratory diseases.