Microbiology Practice Exam

Which of the following chemicals is known to stimulate inflammation?

1. Histamines and leukotrienes

2. Adrenaline and Norepinephrine

3. Cytokines and Interferons

4. Prostaglandins and Kinins

The correct answer is: Histamines and leukotrienes

The correct answer focuses on histamines and leukotrienes, which are both significant mediators of inflammation in the immune response. Histamines are released by mast cells and basophils during allergic reactions and tissue injury, leading to vasodilation and increased permeability of blood vessels. This results in the classic signs of inflammation such as redness and swelling. Leukotrienes, produced by the activation of leukocytes, also play a crucial role in inflammation by promoting bronchoconstriction, vascular permeability, and attracting additional immune cells to the site of injury or infection. Together, these chemicals amplify the inflammatory response and facilitate the body’s defense mechanisms. In contrast, the other options include chemicals that either do not primarily stimulate inflammation or have different primary roles. Adrenaline and norepinephrine are primarily involved in the body's fight-or-flight response and can have anti-inflammatory effects when released in response to stress. Cytokines and interferons have a broader role in cell signaling and immune response modulation rather than directly stimulating inflammation. Prostaglandins and kinins do mediate aspects of inflammation but are distinct processes compared to histamines and leukotrienes' direct stimulation of inflammation.