Histamine-releasing factor (HRF) is a cytokine-like molecule that causes the release of histamine, IL-4 and IL-13 from basophils as well as the secretion of IL-8 and a calcium response in eosinophils. HRF plays a pivotal role in allergic diseases, and due to its wide distribution in brain, is thought to be involved in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Down Syndrome.
