Step 1: Understanding the concept.
Dilation of blood vessels, also known as vasodilation, is a physiological response that increases blood flow to tissues. It commonly occurs during inflammation and allergic reactions.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) histamine: Histamine is released by mast cells during allergic and inflammatory responses. It causes vasodilation and increases the permeability of blood vessels.
(B) gastrin: Gastrin is a hormone that stimulates gastric acid secretion in the stomach and has no role in blood vessel dilation.
(C) elastin: Elastin is a structural protein found in connective tissues and does not actively cause vasodilation.
(D) heparin: Heparin is an anticoagulant that prevents blood clotting but does not cause vasodilation.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) histamine, as it directly causes dilation of blood vessels during inflammatory reactions.