Final answer:
Eosinophils release toxic molecules to combat parasites and antihistamines to modulate allergic and inflammatory responses. They can also engage in phagocytosis when antibodies are present. Their activity levels are indicative of various health conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell, or leukocyte, that play a crucial role in the body's immune response, especially when it comes to parasitic infections and allergic reactions. The substances released by eosinophils include highly toxic molecules to parasites and antihistamine molecules.
These granules can neutralize inflammatory substances like histamines, produced by basophils and mast cells, and are also toxic to parasitic worms. Eosinophils demonstrate phagocytic abilities, particularly when antibodies are present and form an antigen-antibody complex. High eosinophil counts can be indicative of allergies, parasitic infestations, or some autoimmune diseases, while low counts may point to conditions like drug toxicity or stress.