CHOROID PLEXUS Meaning and
Definition
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The choroid plexus refers to a specialized region within the brain that produces cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), a crucial liquid that fills the ventricles and surrounds the brain and spinal cord. This essential structure is made up of a network of small blood vessels covered by a layer of specialized cells called ependymal cells. The choroid plexus is primarily situated in each of the four brain ventricles, which are interconnected spaces that contain and circulate CSF throughout the brain.
The main function of the choroid plexus is to secrete CSF and regulate its composition. It acts as a filtration system, selectively allowing certain substances to pass from the bloodstream into the CSF while preventing others from entering. Additionally, the choroid plexus assists in maintaining the ideal balance of electrolytes, nutrients, and hormones within the CSF, vital for the normal functioning of the central nervous system.
Moreover, the choroid plexus plays a role in protecting the brain and spinal cord by acting as a physical barrier. The ependymal cells forming the choroid plexus tightly regulate the passage of substances into and out of the CSF, ensuring that harmful pathogens, toxins, and large molecules are restricted from entering the brain.
Overall, the choroid plexus serves as an integral component of the brain’s intricate system, contributing to the production and regulation of cerebrospinal fluid, providing essential nutrients and maintenance to the central nervous system, and acting as a barrier against potentially harmful substances.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CHOROID PLEXUS
- xhoroid plexus
- vhoroid plexus
- fhoroid plexus
- dhoroid plexus
- cgoroid plexus
- cboroid plexus
- cnoroid plexus
- cjoroid plexus
- cuoroid plexus
- cyoroid plexus
- chiroid plexus
- chkroid plexus
- chlroid plexus
- chproid plexus
- ch0roid plexus
- ch9roid plexus
- choeoid plexus
- chodoid plexus
- chofoid plexus
Etymology of CHOROID PLEXUS
The word "choroid plexus" originates from two separate terms: "choroid" and "plexus".
"Choroid" comes from the Late Latin word "choroides", which means "membrane-like" or "like a skin". It is derived from the Greek word "khoroeidēs" meaning "like a membrane" or "skin-like". In anatomy, the choroid refers to various structures with a membrane-like appearance, typically rich in blood vessels.
"Plexus" also comes from Latin and is derived from the word "plectere", which means "to plait" or "to weave". A plexus refers to a network or intricate arrangement of blood vessels, nerves, or other anatomical structures.
Similar spelling word for CHOROID PLEXUS
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