ARGENTAFFIN CELL Meaning and
Definition
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An argentaffin cell refers to a type of cell found in various tissues and organs of the body. These specialized cells are primarily distinguished by their ability to stain a dark brown or black color when treated with certain chemical dyes, particularly silver salts. This characteristic staining pattern is a result of the presence of secretory granules within the cytoplasm of these cells, which contain substances that can bind silver ions.
Argentaffin cells are mainly encountered in the digestive system, particularly in the lining of the stomach and the intestines. In the stomach, they are found scattered among the other cell types in the gastric gland. Argentaffin cells in the stomach are responsible for the production and secretion of hormones such as serotonin and histamine. These hormones play essential roles in regulating various physiological processes, including digestion and the contraction of smooth muscles.
In the intestines, argentaffin cells are predominantly located in specialized structures known as enterochromaffin cells or enteroendocrine cells. These cells also produce and release biologically active substances like serotonin, which are crucial for the proper function of the digestive system. Furthermore, argentaffin cells are involved in the communication between the gut and the central nervous system, playing a role in processes such as pain perception and mood regulation.
Overall, argentaffin cells are significant elements in the complex network of cells and tissues that maintain the normal functioning of the digestive system. Their ability to synthesize and secrete hormones and neurotransmitters makes them an essential component in various physiological processes.
Common Misspellings for ARGENTAFFIN CELL
- zrgentaffin cell
- srgentaffin cell
- wrgentaffin cell
- qrgentaffin cell
- aegentaffin cell
- adgentaffin cell
- afgentaffin cell
- atgentaffin cell
- a5gentaffin cell
- a4gentaffin cell
- arfentaffin cell
- arventaffin cell
- arbentaffin cell
- arhentaffin cell
- aryentaffin cell
- artentaffin cell
- argwntaffin cell
- argsntaffin cell
- argdntaffin cell
- argrntaffin cell
Etymology of ARGENTAFFIN CELL
The term Argentaffin cell is derived from two components: argent and affin.
The word argent comes from the Old French term argent which means silver. It ultimately traces back to the Latin word argentum, which also means silver. It is believed that the term argent was used to describe the appearance of certain cells due to their ability to stain a silver color when subjected to certain chemical reactions.
The word affin is derived from the Latin term affinis, meaning related or affinity. In the context of the argentaffin cell, it refers to the characteristic of these cells to exhibit an affinity for silver staining.
Therefore, the word argentaffin cell essentially means silver-staining cell or cell with an affinity for silver staining.
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