What is the primary function of basophils in the human body?

Basophils play a significant role in the body's immune response, particularly in allergic reactions. They are a type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system. When the body encounters allergens—substances that cause allergic reactions—basophils release histamine and other chemicals. Histamine contributes to inflammation, increases blood flow to affected areas, and helps coordinate the body's defenses against allergens. This function is crucial in conditions such as hay fever, asthma, and other allergic states.

The other options pertain to different functions of various components of the immune system or body processes. For example, molecules involved in blood clotting are primarily platelets and clotting factors, not basophils. While fighting infections, particularly viral ones, is a function of other white blood cells like lymphocytes, basophils do not directly target viruses. Oxygen transport in the blood is the primary role of red blood cells, not basophils. Thus, the unique aiding function of basophils in allergic responses highlights their importance in this context.