Histamine is primarily produced by which type of cells?

Histamine is primarily produced by a type of white blood cells known as mast cells and basophils, which are crucial components in the body's immune response. These cells are typically found in connective tissues and are involved in allergic reactions and inflammatory processes. When the body encounters allergens, mast cells can degranulate and release histamine, which plays a significant role in the physiological responses associated with allergies, such as vasodilation and increased permeability of blood vessels.

While platelets and other cells do have some histamine content and might play roles in inflammation, the primary source of histamine is indeed the mast cells and basophils in white blood cells. This reflects the body’s defense mechanism in response to perceived threats, such as allergens, indicating that option C effectively captures the essence of the historical and biological context of histamine production.