The canalicular duct is a small tube that is involved in the drainage of the lacrimal (tear) system. The correct spelling of the word is /kænəˈlɪkjʊlər dʌkt/. The word is made up of the prefix "canal" which means "tube-like channel" and the suffix "-icular" which means "relating to a small part". The middle syllable "-ic-" is pronounced with a short "i" sound /ɪ/ and the final syllable "ular" has stress on the second-to-last syllable.
A canalicular duct is a term used in anatomy and physiology to refer to a specific type of duct found in various organs and tissues of the body. It is usually a small, narrow, tube-like structure that functions to transport or channel certain substances.
The canalicular duct is often lined with specialized cells that are responsible for the secretion or absorption of fluids or compounds. These cells may have specific mechanisms or features that allow them to perform these functions effectively. For example, in the liver, the canalicular ducts are lined with hepatocytes, which are responsible for the secretion of bile.
In addition to their primary function of transporting substances, canalicular ducts may also play a role in maintaining the overall structure or architecture of the organ or tissue they are found in. They may help in the transportation of nutrients, waste products, or other important molecules that are necessary for the proper functioning of the cells and tissues.
The specific structure and function of canalicular ducts can vary depending on the organ or tissue where they are located. For instance, in the lacrimal gland, the canalicular ducts transport tears from the gland to the surface of the eye. In the kidneys, the canalicular ducts are responsible for the final modification and concentration of urine before it gets excreted from the body.
Overall, canalicular ducts are vital components of various organs and tissues that contribute to their proper functioning and maintenance.
One of the branches of the milk ducts.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "canalicular" is derived from the noun "canaliculus". "Canaliculus" comes from the Latin word "canālis", meaning "a small pipe or channel". The suffix "-culus" signifies a diminutive or small size. In anatomy, a "canaliculus" refers to a small tubular passage or duct. Thus, "canalicular" describes something related to or pertaining to a canaliculus or small duct. The noun "duct" derives from the Latin word "ductus", meaning "a conduit or channel". Therefore, a "canalicular duct" refers to a small tubular passage or duct.