BILE CANALICULUS Meaning and
Definition
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A bile canaliculus refers to a minute, microscopic channel found in the liver that plays a crucial role in the formation and transportation of bile. Bile canaliculi are part of the intricate liver structure and are lined with epithelial cells known as hepatocytes, which are primarily responsible for producing bile. These canaliculi serve as conduits through which bile, a thick, yellowish-green fluid that aids in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats, is transported from the liver to the bile ducts.
Bile canaliculi are interwoven within the liver lobules, forming a network that allows bile to flow in a coordinated manner. The canaliculi receive bile secreted by hepatocytes, which contain a variety of substances including bile salts, cholesterol, bilirubin, and phospholipids. Once the hepatocytes have synthesized and secreted bile, it travels into the bile canaliculi via bile ductules.
The exchange of fluids and nutrients between the hepatocytes and the bile canaliculi is facilitated by tight junctions that connect adjacent cells within the canaliculus. This tight junction network helps maintain the integrity of the canaliculi and prevents backflow of bile into the liver tissue. Bile canaliculi eventually converge to form bile ducts, which then carry bile to the gallbladder or directly to the small intestine, where it aids in the emulsification and absorption of fats.
In summary, a bile canaliculus is a minute, microscopic channel within the liver where bile is formed and transported towards the bile ducts for eventual release into the digestive system.
Common Misspellings for BILE CANALICULUS
- vile canaliculus
- nile canaliculus
- hile canaliculus
- gile canaliculus
- bule canaliculus
- bjle canaliculus
- bkle canaliculus
- bole canaliculus
- b9le canaliculus
- b8le canaliculus
- bike canaliculus
- bipe canaliculus
- bioe canaliculus
- bilw canaliculus
- bils canaliculus
- bild canaliculus
- bilr canaliculus
- bil4 canaliculus
- bil3 canaliculus
- bile xanaliculus
Etymology of BILE CANALICULUS
The word "bile" originates from the Latin word "bilis", which means "bile" or "gall". The term "canaliculus" also comes from Latin, derived from "canalis", which means "channel" or "duct".
When combined, "bile canaliculus" refers to the microscopic channels or ducts within the liver that allow bile to flow from liver cells (hepatocytes) into the bile canaliculi network and eventually into larger bile ducts. The term thus describes the structural pathways through which bile is transported within the liver.
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