tcel192 RBL-2H3

These cells have high affinity IgE receptors. They can be activated to secrete histamine and other mediators by aggregation of these receptors or with calcium ionophores. RBL-2H3 cells have been the model for studies of structure of FcERI. Although nearly all lots of fetal bovine serum support the growth of these cells, the cells grown in some lots degranulate better after FcERI aggregation. Another rat basophil line is available(RBL-1) that does not degranulate. Histamine release capacity may be seriously reduced after too much subculturing.