Histamine is a ubiquitous messenger molecule released from mast cells, enterochromaffin-like cells, and neurons. Its various actions are mediated by a family of histamine receptors, which are a subset of the G-protein coupled receptor superfamily. This gene encodes a histamine receptor that is predominantly expressed in haematopoietic cells. The protein is thought to play a role in inflammation and allergy reponses. Multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, May 2009].
Function: The H4 subclass of histamine receptors could mediate the histamine signals in peripheral tissues. Displays a significant level of constitutive activity (spontaneous activity in the absence of agonist).