Histamine: A Mediator of Intestinal Disorders—A Review

Abstract

Within the gastrointestinal tract, histamine is present at relatively high concentrations, especially during inflammatory processes. Histamine is a biogenic amine with numerous effects on many cell types, mediated by the activation of its four different histamine receptors (H1–H4Rs). It is produced and released by immune cells as mast cells and basophils. Some cells such as dendritic cells or T cells can express histidine decarboxylase, an enzyme for histamine synthesis after stimulation. The same can be done by the human gut microbiota. The production of histamine by bacteria in the human gut influence the immune response, although the major source of histamine is food. The large spectrum of histamine effects on a number of cellular processes results in various gastrointestinal disorders including food allergy, histamine intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease, among others. In this review, the protective or pathogenic effects of histamine on various gut disorders are discussed.

1. Histamine

Histamine [2-(4-imidazolyl)-ethylamine] is a biogenic amine that was first synthesized in the early 1900s. Since then, its functions have started to be discovered and more well-described [1,2]. Histamine, which is found in many cell types, seems to be the most pleiotropic molecule in the human body [3]. The best known action of histamine is to induce contraction of smooth muscle cells (including bronchi and intestines) as well as dilate blood vessels and increase their permeability. Histamine causes heart rhythm disturbances and influences blood pressure, increases mucous secretion, gastric acid secretion, and irritation of nociceptive nerve fibers [4,5]. Histamine may also play a role in neurotransmission, immunomodulation, hemopoiesis, wound healing, intestinal ischemia, day–night rhythm regulation, and angiogenesis in tumor models [6].

1.1. Synthesis and Degradation of Histamine

Histamine is formed by oxidative decarboxylation from the amino acid L-histidine with the enzyme histidine decarboxylase (HDC). Histamine is degraded as a result of the cyclopentyl action of histamine N-methyltransferase (HNMT) and by oxidative deamination of diaminoxidase (DAO). HNMT is mainly responsible for the degradation of intracellular histamine. The highest expression of HNMT occurs in the kidneys and liver as well as in the spleen, colon, prostate, ovary, cells in the spinal cord, bronchi, and trachea [7]. A small part of histamine is converted into N-methylhistamine by the action of HNMT. In its original form, approximately 2–3% of histamine is excreted [8,9]. DAO, which is a secreted protein, is responsible for the degradation of extracellular histamine. The greatest activity of DAO is recorded in the small intestine, colon, placenta, and kidneys. The vast majority of histamine is converted into imidazole acetic acid by DAO [9].

1.2. Sources of Histamine in the Body

The main cellular source of histamine are mast cells and basophils [10]. In the Golgi apparatus of the cell, the amino acid L-histidine is decarboxylated with the enzyme L-histidine decarboxylase, whose co-factor is pyridoxal phosphate (vitamin B6). The result of this reaction is the formation of histamine, which is later stored in the cytoplasmic granules along with other amines (e.g., serotonin), proteases, proteoglycans, cytokines/chemokines, and angiogenic factors and released after sensitization and degranulation of the cell [11,12]. The degranulation of mast cells and the release of histamine occur mainly as the result of binding a specific antigen to the FcRI receptor as well as in response to non-immune stimuli (e.g., neuropeptides, parts of the complement system, cytokines, platelet activation factor). IgE antibodies are mediators of mast cell degranulation during allergic diseases. The binding of IgE to its high-affinity IgE receptor on mast cell surfaces is called “sensitization” and precedes the development of clinical allergy. Histamine released from mast cells and basophils exerts its biological activities by activating four G protein-coupled receptors, namely H1R, H2R, H3R (expressed mainly in the brain), and H4R. While H1R and H2R activation mainly accounts for some mast cell and basophil-mediated allergic disorders, the selective expression of H4R on immune cells is uncovering new roles for histamine (possibly derived from mast cells and basophils) in allergic, inflammatory, and autoimmune disorders [12]. Histamine release also results from the action of a variety of chemical and physical factors such as extreme temperatures, trauma, vibrations, or alcohol [6]. Histamine can also be synthesized and released by other cell types (e.g., gastric enterochromaffin-like cells, histaminergic neurons, dendritic cells (DCs), T lymphocytes, platelets, etc. [10]).

It is estimated that about 5% of total histamine enters the body with food or is produced by intestinal microorganisms [13]. The most popular histamine-rich foods are fish and seafood, matured or fermented foods (e.g., cheese, alcohol, pickles, etc.), and some vegetables (e.g., spinach, eggplant, tomato, etc.). According to the law in the European Union, the permissible content of histamine in food is a maximum of 200 mg/kg in fresh fish and 400 mg/kg in seafood [14]. Histidine is produced mainly in autolytic or bacterial processes, therefore high concentrations of histamine are mainly found in microbial fermentation products [15]. The conditions for the formation of biogenic amines in food are the availability of free amino acids, the presence of decarboxylase-positive microorganisms as well as the conditions enabling the growth of bacteria and the activity of decarboxylase.

Microbiota are also an important source of histamine [16,17,18]. The production of histamine by bacteria in the human gut has been shown to influence the immune response. Therefore, elucidating the role of histamine as a metabolite of gut bacteria is an interesting area of research. Genes encoding HDC and synthesizing histamine have been demonstrated in many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It was shown that in bacteria belonging to the genera Lactobacillus, Pediococcus, and Oenococcus, the presence of histidine is a factor inducing the expression of genes encoding HDC, while the presence of histamine caused the opposite effect [18]. Two HDC superfamilies have been described: Gram-negative bacteria have HDCs that require the presence of a coenzyme, which is pyridoxal phosphorus. In turn, for Gram-positive bacteria, covalently bonded pyruvate is used for catalysis [19]. The secretion of decarboxylase by bacteria is regulated by many factors (e.g., the presence of fermenting carbohydrates, oxygen, or chloride concentration). In an acidic environment, the expression of the activity of amino acid decarboxylases increases. This causes a local increase in pH around the bacteria and has a protective function [20]. The species of bacteria with the highest histidine decarboxylase activity are Morganella morganii, Eschericha coli, Hafnia alvei, Proteus vulgaris, Proteus milabilis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Raoultella planticola, Raoultella ornithinolytica, Citrobacter freundii, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Photobacterium damselae [21]. Some bacteria have the ability to metabolize histamine. The aerobic growth of Pseudomonas putida U was demonstrated on a minimal medium, the only carbon source of which was histamine. In the six-stage catabolic process, histamine is converted into aspartic acid, which is then converted into fumaric acid. It has been shown that 11 proteins (HinABCDFLHGIJK) are necessary for the metabolism of histamine in P. Putida U. Genome studies indicate that Hin genes are present in strains of the genus Pseudomonas, but have not been shown to be present in previously sequenced Gram-positive bacteria [22]. Depending on the type of activated histamine receptor, it exerts either a pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory effect. Histamine derived from Lactobacillus reuteri via histamine receptor 2 inhibited the production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (induced by toll-like receptor) by human monocytoid cells [23]. In an experimental mice model, the immunomodulatory effect of histamine secreted by Lactobacillus rhamnosus was demonstrated. In mice without the deficiency of H2R, administration of this bacterial strain induced an anti-inflammatory effect (decreased secretion of interleukins, TNF-α) [24]. Some reports indicate that the amount of histamine secreted may determine its pathophysiological effects. These assumptions were confirmed by the study with Lactobacillus saerimneri, synthesizing almost 100 times more histamine compared to L. rhamnosus. Consequently, apart from various immunological effects, a decrease in the body weight of the animals and deterioration of the general condition were also observed [25]. The effect of bacterial secretion of histamine on intestinal diseases and digestive disorders has been reported. Therefore, it is important to deepen the knowledge of the factors influencing the synthesis, release, and metabolism of histamine by bacterial strains that make up the intestinal microbiome.

External factors that reduce the microbial diversity may cause differences in the composition of the intestinal microbiota, which may result in a state of dysbiosis. The exact mechanisms leading to dysbiosis remain unclear. The combination of physiological changes and the action of stress factors should be taken into account. Research indicates a relevant relationship between intestinal dysbiosis and the occurrence of intestinal diseases (e.g., inflammatory bowel diseases, histamine intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome) [26].

2. Histamine Scheme of Action through Histamine Receptors

The effects of histamine are due to the activation of four histamine receptor (HR) subtypes—H1R, H2R, H3R, and H4R [20,27]. Histamine receptors belong to the rhodopsin-like family of G-protein coupled receptors and are differentially expressed in numerous cell types. The tissue preference of histamine receptors are shown in Figure 1. They differ in their signaling mechanisms [28], but simultaneous activation of more than one receptor on a specific cell can lead to altered effects [29].

Figure 1.

The location of histamine receptors in the human body.

2.1. H1R

H1 receptor activation occurs through the Gαq/11 protein, which causes the activation of phospholipase C and an increase in Ca²⁺ levels [30]. The effect of H1R activation is the contraction of airway smooth muscles, an increase in vascular permeability as well as the induction of the production of prostacyclin and platelet activating factor [31]. H1R is present in many types of cells (e.g., neurons, airway smooth muscle cells, chondrocytes, hepatocytes, endothelial cells, dendritic cells, monocytes, neutrophils, T cells, and B cells [32]). The H1 receptor is the main receptor involved in the development of allergic reactions. Allergic symptoms such as redness, itching, and swelling are related to IgE-mediated activation of mucosal mast cells. Activation of these cells results in the release of histamine and other mediators from their granularity [11]. Activation of H1R in murine models induces an increase in IFN (interferon) production, which is associated with the proliferation of type 1 T helper cells and induces a proinflammatory effect [33]. It has been shown that the expression of pruritic factors (e.g., nerve growth factor, semaphorin 3A) is regulated by histamine H1R. In murine models and patients with atopic dermatitis, the use of an H1R antagonist resulted in a reduction in IL-31 (interleukin-31) levels, which is associated with the onset of pruritus [34].

2.2. H2R

H2R expression has been observed in the digestive system (e.g., gastric parietal cells, enterocytes), smooth muscle cells, cardiomyocytes, dendritic cells (DC), and also in T and B cells. H2R receptors are postsynaptic, transmitting signals mainly via cyclic adenosine monophosphorane (cAMP) and coupling with Gαs [35]. H2R stimulation causes the external secretion of hydrochloric acid, relaxation of smooth muscle cells, and tachycardia. H2R stimulation also causes anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of IL-12, IFN-γ, TNF-α cytokines by monocytes or macrophages and mast cells, reducing the proliferation of T-helper 1 and the production of antibodies [36]. During the binding of histamine to the H2R, there is an increase in IL-10 secretion and a decrease in IL-12 levels. Consequently, DC with histamine maturation polarized naive CD4+ T cells toward the Th2 phenotype. This study suggests that Th2 cells stimulate IgE production, which may induce increased secretion of histamine by mast cells. This effect may constitute a positive feedback loop and contribute to the aggravation of atopic diseases [37]. Histamine (endogenous and exogenous) significantly changes the innate immune response to microorganisms through H2R [24]. Knockdown of H2R−/− mice caused disorders of the immune system as well as gastric defects (decreased gastric acid secretion). Cognitive decline and abnormal nociception have also been observed [38,39,40].

2.3. H3R

The expression of H3 receptors is observed in cells of the nervous system, especially in the cerebral cortex, neurons of the basal ganglia, and the hippocampus. H3Rs are located in the presynaptic region of histamine-containing neurons. Their function is to regulate the synthesis and release of histamine as well as other neurotransmitters (e.g., dopamine, norepinephrine, gamma-aminobutyric acid, acetylcholine, and serotonin) [41]. Changes in the expression and activation of H3 receptors play an important role in sleep–wake cycle disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, epilepsy, and cognitive disorders as well as in the development of inflammation [42]. In studies in mouse models, the induction of acetylcholine release by H3R antagonists has also been shown to increase insulin secretion as well as significantly reduce the total body weight and triglyceride levels in obese mice. This effect may be related to inducing a feeling of fullness in the hypothalamus. The hypoglycemic effect of the H3R antagonist is comparable to that of metformin [43]. H3R stimulation increases pro-inflammatory activity as well as the ability of immune cells to present the antigen. Potentially, the use of histamine H3R antagonists could be used in preventing or inhibiting the development of inflammatory diseases (e.g., in the respiratory system) [44].

2.4. H4R

H4 receptors were discovered the most recently and their role is not yet fully understood. H4Rs are present mainly in immune cells (eosinophils, basophils, mast cells, natural killer (NK) cells, DC cells, monocytes, and T cells) and also in the spleen, thymus, bone marrow, intestinal epithelium, and neuroendocrine cells. They are also found in the bile and pancreatic ducts [45]. In contrast to other types of histamine receptors, the H4 receptor is not particularly expressed in the central and peripheral nervous system [46]. H4 receptors are coupled to Gi proteins and their downstream pathways are believed to be similar to those described for H3Rs. H4R activation is an important factor modeling chemotaxis as well as other cell functions. As a result of H4R-mediated activation of mast cells, pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β1 (tumor growth factor-β1), RANTES, IL-8, MIP-1α, and MCP-1 are expressed [47]. The available studies suggest that H4Rs, through interactions with Gα/io proteins, contribute to the development of inflammatory reactions and hypersensitivity [12]. Activation of H4Rs has been shown to lead to pruritus. The use of H4 antagonists had an antipruritic effect, and the simultaneous blockade of H1 and H4Rs enhanced this effect. Research suggests that H4R, by activating Th2 cells and producing IL-31, may trigger the development of allergic dermatitis [48]. Activation of H4R and H3R increases the effect of acetylcholine on the peristaltic movement of the intestines [49]. H4 receptors are also involved in peptic ulcer formation and carcinogenesis [50].

3. Histamine in the Intestines

Histamine is well-recognized for its effects in the immediate type hypersensitivity response (type I of hypersensitivity reactions by Gel–Coombs classification). The pathological effect of increased levels of histamine in the gut is less understood. However, as described further in this review article, the increased levels of histamine alter the host immune interactions with microbiota and lead to a breakdown in homeostasis, causing the development of many gut diseases that are difficult to cope with. Histamine levels in the gut can be influenced by host allergic and inflammatory responses, somehow altering the activity of enzymes that degrade or synthesize histamine as well as its dietary intake in addition to the host microbiota production. Furthermore, the amount of endogenous levels of histamine can be enhanced upon the stimulation of histamine-producing immune cells. All of this can influence gut homeostasis, lead to histamine accumulation, and breakdown to a specific disorder. The changed interactions with histamine receptors caused by their different synthesis can lead to further implications. Agonists or antagonists of histamine receptors or both added simultaneously will further modify this already complicated scenario. On top of this are environmental factors and genetic predisposition. This makes it a very complicated problem to deal with from the therapeutic point of view. Histamine may also negatively or positively influence the parasitic and bacterial infections [51,52]. All histamine receptors except H3R are also expressed throughout the intestinal tract in humans [53]. From a quantitative point of view, H4R expression is significantly less abundant in comparison to H1R and H2R, at least on the mRNA level [45,54,55].

4. Role of Histamine in Intestine Disorders

The role of histamine in intestinal disorders is schematically shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2.

Histamine in intestine disorders.

4.1. Food Allergy

The digestive tract is a place that comes into contact with a large number of different molecules that are potential allergens. The characteristic symptoms of food allergies are manifested in the respiratory, digestive, cardiovascular, and skin systems. IgE-dependent food allergies develop as a result of disorders of the immune system, leading to a loss of tolerance. This leads to the recognition of mild food antigens as pathogens. Taking into account the described immunoregulatory functions of histamine, it is presumed that it may alter the immune response of the intestines to food antigens. Research results indicate the participation of histamine receptors in the development of food allergies [20]. It has been shown that the use of H2R antagonists in humans increased the production of IgE against food antigens [56]. The pathophysiology of IgE-dependent food allergy is related to the activation of the immune system. In response to a stimulus from Th2 cells, IgE binds to Fcε receptors on effector cells (mast cells and basophils). As a result of the activation of effector cells, histamine is released as well as other mediators. As a result of the IgE-dependent reaction, clinical symptoms are rapidly manifested [57]. In a food-allergic subject, enhanced secretion of histamine and increased numbers of mast cell were well-demonstrated [58,59,60]. For example, histamine release from basophils was positively correlated with the skin prick test, and food challenge. The anti-IgE-mediated mast cell histamine release in food-allergic patients was increased compared to the non-allergic [61]. Additionally, the incubation of biopsies from food-allergic patients with anti-IgE (human) antibodies or allergens induced a ninefold increase in histamine release. Further stimulation of biopsis ex vivo with histamine induced a concentration-dependent NO response only in the food allergic patients [62]. Food allergy can manifest as mild and severe symptoms. The most severe, potentially life-threatening manifestation is anaphylaxis. Strict avoidance of food allergens is a long-term strategy for managing IgE-mediated food allergies. Food allergy is diagnosed on the basis of clinical symptoms, skin prick tests, and the presence of specific IgE in the serum. However, the gold standard in diagnosing food allergy is to complete the double-blind placebo controlled food challenge (DBPCFC) [63]. In this method, neither the patient nor the doctor knows what food allergen is administered. The patient is exposed to gradually increasing doses of the suspected food, hidden in a matrix. The DBPCFC can be performed in a 1- or a 2-day approach. During a 1-day approach, placebo doses containing an identical matrix are randomly interspersed. During a 2-day approach, one day consists of verum doses, and one day of the placebo. The order of the verum and placebo days are random. The DBPCFC is performed in a hospital setting, with a trained nurse and full emergency medication readily available. The challenge is discontinued when objective symptoms occur, or when consistent subjective symptoms occur on at least three subsequent doses. Due to the increasing incidence of food allergies, numerous studies have been conducted to develop new therapeutic and preventive strategies. There are also many studies on various stages of the pathogenesis of food allergies such as the influence on the Th2 pathways, blocking IgE, suppression of effector cells, and microbial therapeutics [64]. Long-term immune tolerance should be the most desirable effect in the treatment of food allergy [65]. Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is one of the developing treatments of food allergies. It consists in administering allergens to patients in doses increased every 2–4 weeks, until the maximum maintenance dose is reached. The result of this procedure is the development of tolerance to food. This method has been used in food allergies to milk, eggs, wheat, peanuts, nuts, and shellfish [66]. The FDA has approved oral immunotherapy for peanut allergy [67]. Epidermal and sublingual immunotherapy are currently under investigation. Clinical trials have also been conducted on epidermal immunotherapy in the case of allergies to milk and eggs.

4.2. Histamine Intolerance

Histamine intolerance (HIT) is a condition in which, due to the reduced ability to break down histamine, it accumulates [68]. In other words, there is no balance between accumulated histamine and the capacity for its degradation. In healthy patients, the intestinal epithelial cells have an enzyme barrier created by DAO and HMNT. This barrier prevents excessive resorption of exogenous histamine in the bloodstream. If these enzymes are inhibited or reduced, symptoms of histamine intolerance may occur after consuming even a small amount of histamine [69]. An underlying cause of histamine intolerance is diamine oxidase (DAO) deficiency, which leads to defective homeostasis and a higher systemic absorption of histamine. Impaired DAO activity may have a genetic, pharmacological, or pathological origin. The decrease in DAO activity may be caused by damage to enterocytes in the course of gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., inflammatory bowel diseases, infections). Other biogenic amines, drugs, and alcohol may inhibit the action of DAO. The microbiome also influences the development of histamine intolerance. A recent proposal also suggests that HIT can arise from an alteration in the gut microbiota [70]. A greater abundance of histamine-secreting bacteria in the gut could lead to the development of histamine intolerance. A greater number of the Bifidobacteriaceu family in healthy people has been shown. Higher numbers of the genus Proteobacteria were observed in people with decreased serum DAO activity [71].

Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota was observed in the histamine intolerance group who, in comparison with the healthy individuals, had a significantly lower proportion of Prevotellaceae, Ruminococcus, Faecalibacterium, and Faecablibacterium prausnitzii, which are bacteria related to gut health. They also had a significantly higher abundance of histamine-secreting bacteria including the genera Staphylococcus and Proteus, several unidentified genera belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae, and the species Clostridium perfringens and Enterococcus faecalis. A greater abundance of histaminogenic bacteria would favor the accumulation of high levels of histamine in the gut, its subsequent absorption in plasma, and the appearance of adverse effects, even in individuals without DAO deficiency, as the study by Sánchez-Pérez and co-authors showed [72]. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of HIT. Single nucleotide polymorphism of the single nucleotide polymorphism in the DAO gene results in altered production of a protein with lower enzymatic activity [8]. Increasing the amount of histamine metabolites leads to the inhibition of the second histamine metabolizing enzyme—HNMT [7]. There have also been speculation that histamine intolerance may be a metabolic disease [73]. Aside from problems with histamine digestion, a possible cause of HIT is endogenous histamine overproduction or increased exogenous ingestion of histidine or histamine from food. A plasma histamine concentration of 0.3 to 1.0 ng/mL is considered normal [74]. Common symptoms of HIT appear as a result of an increase in the levels of histamine in the body. When exposed to large amounts of histamine, even in healthy people, symptoms such as severe headache and hot flushes may occur. This effect is known as scromboid poisoning. Secondary HIT symptoms are related to the synthesis and release of catecholamines, which is caused by the increased concentration of histamine. This can cause a paradoxical increase in blood pressure, tachycardia, arrhythmias, nervousness, and sleep disturbance [6]. Symptoms of histamine intolerance are presented in Table 1.

Table 1.

Symptoms of histamine intolerance from a specific organ.

	Symptoms of Histamine Intolerance
Respiratory system	rhinorrhea, rhinitis, nasal congestion, dyspnea, sneezing
Cardiovascular system	tachycardia, hypotonia, collapse
Gastrointestinal system	bloating, flatulence, postprandial fullness, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, nausea, vomiting
Reproductive system	menstrual cramps, dysmenorrhea
Skin	pruritus, flushing, urticarial, dermatitis, swelling
Nervous system	headache/migraine, dizziness, chronic inappropriate fatigue, nervousness, sleep disturbances (insomnia), anxiety, panic disorder, depression

Clinical diagnosis of HIT remains a challenge, as standardized diagnostic tests are lacking. The diagnosis of histamine intolerance can be made only after excluding other causes that may produce similar symptoms. IgE-mediated food allergy, mastocytosis, and the action of drugs that may interfere with the metabolism and distribution of histamine should be ruled out. Diagnosis usually requires the presence of at least two clinical symptoms in less than four hours after food intake and their improvement or remission after a low-histamine diet. Complementary tests such as the determination of DAO activity in blood samples or intestinal biopsy and the identification of genetic and metabolic markers are also available [8,75]. The gold standard of treatment is a low-histamine diet. A good response to 4–8 weeks of such a diet is considered to confirm the diagnosis of histamine intolerance. DAO supplementation is also recommended as a complementary treatment in people with intestinal DAO deficiency [75,76]. In severe conditions where a low-histamine diet is insufficient, H1R antihistamines can be used for a short time. Some studies have shown that supplementation with DAO enzyme cofactors such as vitamin C, copper, and vitamin B6 may be an adjunctive therapy [77]. An interesting field of research seems to be supplementation with probiotic microorganisms. Such an approach could lead to a reduction in the production of the bacterial L-histidine decarboxylase enzyme as well as to the simultaneous degradation of histamine (or other biogenic amines). There are no studies assessing the effectiveness of supplementation with probiotic microorganisms. However, based on the available information, it can be assumed that members of the genus Bifidobacterium may be considered as candidates for adequate supplementation [71,78].

4.3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are idiopathic, chronic-recurring diseases of the gut. Their two main manifestations, ulcerative colitis (UC) and Lesniowski–Crohn’s disease (CD), differ in their clinical, endoscopic, and histologic appearance. In CD, the inflammation appears in diffuse lesions that can be found all over the digestive tract and deeply penetrates the intestinal wall, possibly affecting all layers. In contrast, inflammatory lesions in UC start in the rectum, proceed upward but do not exceed the colon, and remain superficial at the mucosa. Lesniowski–Crohn disease leads to transmural inflammation throughout the whole gastrointestinal tract but is characterized by a discontinuous pattern. In contrast to ulcerative colitis where inflammation is superficial, ulcerations are limited mainly to the colon mucosa. IBD decreases the quality of the patients’ lives and not treated, can be life threatening. Both manifestations present similar symptoms (e.g., mucosal lesions, ulcers, edema, diarrhea, bloody stool, abdominal pain). Studying the available knowledge about the mechanisms of these diseases, it is easy to conclude that both disease development is a result of complex interactions between the host immune system, enteric microbiota, and environmental factors in genetically susceptible patients. Mucosal histamine levels (not plasma levels) are increased in patients with IBD. Increased levels of N-methylhistamine that correlated with disease activity were found in the patients’ urine [59,79,80]. Mast cells originating from the resected colon of active Lesniowski–Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis were able to release more histamine than those from the normal colon when being stimulated with an antigen, colon-derived murine epithelial cell-associated compounds [14]. Similarly, cultured colorectal endoscopic samples from patients with IBD secreted more histamine toward substance P alone or substance P with anti-IgE than the samples from normal control subjects under the same stimulation [15]. The histamine signaling pathway is disrupted in both patients with Lesniowski–Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis, as shown in the detailed analysis conducted by Smolinska and co-authors [81]. Histamine receptor expression and functional activity is altered in IBD patients. In addition blockage of H2R resulted in more severe inflammatory disease in the murine T-cell transfer colitis model. Histamine mostly suppresses IFN-γ and TNF-α secretion, and the gene expression of these cytokines correlates positively with H4R and H2R expression accordingly in patients with ulcerative colitis. HNMT gene expression is reduced in inflamed mucosa, and DAO polymorphisms have been associated with an increased risk of IBD [81,82,83]. The use of the H2R antagonist (but not proton pump inhibitors) increases the risk of hospitalization or surgery in Lesniowski–Crohn disease patients [42]. Transfer of T cells, which lack H2R or inhibit H2R using femotidine (H2R antagonist), accelerates weight loss and increases the disease severity in a mouse colitis model. Patients with IBD are treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, antibiotics, aminosalicylates, or welcome biological therapy with the use of infliximab (anti-TNF-α). In many cases, the only option to obtain a state of remission is radical surgery, where the inflamed areas are cut out. Potentially, the use of an antagonist for H1R and H4R with the simultaneous use of the H2R agonist can be beneficial for patients with IBD [81].

4.4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Functional dyspepsia (FD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) are commonly reported, but solely as symptom-oriented conditions. These clinical syndromes continue to be imprecise and were therefore re-named to “IBS-like” disorders [84]. There is a lack of specificity of symptoms. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, etc. are general symptoms linked with gastrointestinal disorders. IBS is a chronic condition linked to abdominal discomfort or pain where the food eaten is a trigger of more severe symptoms. Some evidence has shown that the gastrointestinal microbiota is altered and perhaps this disrupted mucosal immune response plays a significant role [85,86]. In one study, more than half of the patients experienced gastrointestinal symptoms from histamine-releasing food items and foods rich in biogenic amine [87]. The level of endogenous histamine definitely correlates with the severity of symptoms in IBS patients. Activated mast cells produced higher amounts of histamine, which correlated with abdominal pain in IBS patients [88]. Mucosal biopsy supernatants from IBS patients contained higher levels of histamine compared to supernatants delivered the same way from healthy subjects [89,90]. Histamine levels and the abundance of HDC genes were determined in both healthy and IBS patients using metabolomics and metagenomics data from the integrative Human Microbiome Project. These analyses revealed that IBS patients presented higher levels of histamine and bacterial HDC genes [91]. Subsequent studies have also shown that supernatants from colonic samples of IBS patients contained increased histamine levels, and the expression levels of histamine receptors H1R and H2R were upregulated in IBS patients [92]. The authors thus hypothesized that a dysbiosis with increased histamine-secreting or HDC-containing bacteria was potentially associated with the development and aggravation of IBS [93]. Administration of specific microbes has therapeutic effects, which can also be an argument for microbiota changes as a cause of disease [94,95,96]. There is no specific treatment for IBS. Drugs that decrease inflammation are in use.

4.5. Scombroid Poisoning

Scombroid poisoning or histamine fish poisoning results from mishandled fish [97]. The symptoms are variable and can include oral numbness, headache, dizziness, palpitations, low blood pressure, difficulties in swallowing, week or rapid pulse, hives, rush, flushing, swelling of face, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. Histamine is generated in fish tissue by bacterial conversion of free histidine by a wide range of bacterial species: Morganella morganii, Enterobacter aerogenes, Raoultella planticola, Raoultella ornithinolytica, and Photobacterium damselae. Aside from high levels of histamine, its toxicity can be enhanced by inhibitors of enzymes that degrade histamine. DAO and HNMT inhibitors were also present in the ingested fish [98]. In addition, toxins that induce mast cell degranulation are found in spoiled fish, leading to further increases of histamine in the host body [99]. Furthermore, some substances that have the potential to be histamine receptor blockers were also found in the fish. The symptoms of scombroid disease are usually rapid and do not last longer than 24 h. Treatment includes the administration of antihistamines.

4.6. Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality [100]. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease have an increased lifetime risk of CRC compared with the general population [101,102]. This risk can be reduced by the treatment of colitis with the suppression of intestinal inflammation [103]. The role of the intestinal microbiome in colon cancer development has been investigated [104,105,106,107]. Specific gut microbes and their metabolites may contribute to the cause of CRC [108,109,110]. Histidine decarboxylase deficiency has been shown to promote inflammation-associated colorectal cancer by the accumulation of CD11b⁺Gr-1⁺ immature myeloid cells, indicating a potential antitumorigenic effect of histamine. Several probiotic strains including Bifidobacterium longum [111], Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM [112], and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG [113] have shown beneficial effects in different murine models of colon cancer. This histamine-producing probiotic decreased the number and size of colon tumors and the colonic uptake of [¹⁸F]-fluorodeoxyglucose by positron emission tomography in HDC^−/− mice. Administration of L. reuteri suppressed keratinocyte chemoattractant (KC), Il22, Il6, Tnf, and IL1α gene expression in the colonic mucosa and reduced the amounts of proinflammatory, cancer-associated cytokines, keratinocyte chemoattractant, IL-22, and IL-6, in plasma. Histamine-generating L. reuteri also decreased the relative numbers of splenic CD11b⁺Gr-1⁺ immature myeloid cells. Furthermore, an isogenic HDC-deficient L. reuteri mutant that was unable to generate histamine did not suppress carcinogenesis, indicating a significant role of the cometabolite, histamine, in the suppression of chronic intestinal inflammation and colorectal tumorigenesis. In the colonic mucosa of CRC patients, HDC activity as well as histamine content were increased in comparison to the normal samples [114,115]. However, in mice with experimentally induced CRC, the deletion of HDC resulted in enhanced tumorigenesis compared to the wild type mice, pointing toward an anti-carcinogenic effect of histamine, which is supported by the finding that gut microbiota-derived histamine suppresses colorectal tumorigenesis [116]. On one hand, histamine promotes the underlying inflammatory process, leading to tumor initiation. On the other hand, histamine in the tumor’s tissue may affect the differentiation of immature myeloid cells toward neutrophils and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, both resulting in tumor regression [117,118]. While the effect of histamine on the differentiation toward neutrophils is a direct one, the differentiation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells is affected by IL-17, which is produced by tumor-associated mast cells upon histamine stimulation. This anti-cancer effect of histamine is supported by similar findings obtained in models of esophageal squamous carcinoma [119]. Interestingly, mast cells have been found to be abundant in colon carcinoma and to promote carcinogenesis in chemically-induced CRC in mice [120], and are associated with a poor prognosis in human CRC patients [121]. In analogy to the pro-inflammatory effect of histamine via the H4R, the absence of H4R expression also leads to a reduction in chemically-induced carcinogenesis in mice [122]. However, some indications arise from the observation that the expression of H4R decreases in gastric carcinoma during progression, accompanied by the attenuated histamine-induced suppression of proliferation [119,123].

5. Conclusions

Histamine is a mediator that is mainly recognized due to its role in inducing allergic symptoms, but it is also involved in non-allergic inflammatory reactions. The role of histamine present within the gastrointestinal mucosa is of special interest. Its potential seems to be underestimated. In some concentration ranges, histamine plays a protective role and is pivotal to maintain the healthy status. However, at higher concentrations histamine contributes to the pathophysiology of mucosal inflammatory disorders. The overlap of various mechanisms complicates the understanding of its role in disease and the possible design of diagnostics and curative modalities based on them. The application of various medications that utilize mechanisms interfering with histamine signals could be beneficial for patients. Enhancement of H2R expression and/or its intracellular signals with simultaneous decrease H1R or/and H4R activity is a plausible approach to improve mucosal immunity including a protective umbrella in both allergy and autoimmunity. The use of gut microbiota with the potential to release histamine offers a novel therapeutic perspective.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, S.S.; investigation, S.S.; resources, S.S., E.W.; writing—review and editing, S.S., E.W., A.G., M.J.; visualization, S.S., A.G.; supervision, M.J.; project administration, S.S.; funding acquisition, S.S., E.W., M.J. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Funding Statement

The publication was prepared under the project financed from the funds granted by the Ministry of Education and Science in the „Regional Initiative of Excellence” programme for the years 2019–2022, project number 016/RID/2018/19, the amount of funding 9354023,74 PLN.