Basófílum

Basófílum is a term that can refer to two distinct concepts in biology. One is a type of white blood cell, and the other is a type of microorganism.

In hematology, basófílum, or basophil, is a granulocyte and a type of white blood cell that plays a role in the immune system. Basophils are characterized by their large, dark purple or blue granules, which stain readily with basic dyes. These granules contain various inflammatory mediators, including histamine and heparin. When activated, basophils release these substances, contributing to allergic reactions and inflammation. They are the least common type of granulocyte in the blood, typically making up less than 1% of circulating white blood cells.

In microbiology, basófílum also describes a type of microorganism that thrives in alkaline environments. These organisms have an optimal growth pH above 7.0, and some can survive and multiply in highly alkaline conditions, such as those found in soda lakes or certain industrial processes. The term "basophilic" is often used to describe the staining properties of cells or tissues that readily take up basic dyes, a characteristic shared by the granules of basophil white blood cells and by certain bacterial structures.