[The H1 and H2 histamine receptors]

Histamine is a major mediator of the allergic reactions. Histamine have different actions: contraction of smooth muscles, vascular action, increase in gastric and adrenal medulla secretion. Effects on central or peripheral nervous system are discussed. The specific H1 or H2 activity explains the different configurations of histamine. The specificity of H1 receptors agonists is now well known: H1 activities have a positive charge on the side chain with an imidazole ring able to rotate around the axis of side chain. The contraction of smooth muscles is due to the action of H1 receptors agonists. Many doubts remain about the exact structures of the H2 receptors, and their agonists. Trough the H2 receptors occur dilatation of small arteries and capillaries, as well as an increase in gastric secretion. Subdivisions of H2 receptors have been, suggested. Recently H3 receptors have been described in the brain and in some peripheral tissues. Interrelations between H1 and H2 histamine receptors have been described as well as a feedback of synthesis and of histamine release.