Chyle corpuscle is a term used to refer to a type of cell found in chyle, a milky fluid made up of fats and lymph. It is a complex word that is spelled using the principles of the English language and Latin roots. The phonetic transcription for the word "chyle corpuscle" is /kaɪl kor’pʌsəl/. The "ch" sound is pronounced like "k", "y" is pronounced like "i", and "e" is pronounced like "uh". The Latin root "corpus" means "body" and "-cle" is a suffix meaning "small".
A chyle corpuscle refers to a specialized cell found in the lymphatic system known as a chyle cell or a lacteal cell. These cells are responsible for transporting lipids or fat molecules within the lymphatic vessels of the body. Chyle corpuscles are mainly located in the villi of the small intestine, within finger-like projections called lacteals.
These cells play a crucial role in the absorption of dietary fats during the digestive process. After the consumption of fats, the chyle corpuscles absorb these fat molecules from the small intestine and transport them into the lymphatic vessels. This transport occurs in the form of a milky-white fluid called chyle, hence the name chyle corpuscle.
The structure of chyle corpuscles is characterized by a central lacteal or lymphatic capillary surrounded by a layer of specialized epithelial cells. These cells possess microscopic finger-like projections known as microvilli, which significantly increase their surface area for enhanced absorption of fats.
The chyle corpuscles not only facilitate fat absorption but also aid in the transport of fat-soluble vitamins, cholesterol, and other substances that are absorbed through the lymphatic system. Once the absorbed fats reach the lymphatic vessels, they mix with lymph and eventually enter the bloodstream, where they can be utilized by various cells and tissues throughout the body.
In summary, chyle corpuscles are specialized cells found in the lymphatic system that absorb and transport fats from the small intestine. They play a vital role in the digestion and uptake of dietary lipids, ensuring their efficient delivery to various parts of the body for utilization and energy production.
A cell of the same appearance as a leucocyte, present in chyle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "chyle" is derived from the Greek word "khuos", meaning "chyle" or "juice". It refers to the milky fluid that is formed from digested food in the small intestine.
The term "corpuscle" is derived from the Latin word "corpusculum", meaning "small body". It is used to describe a small, distinct mass or particle.
When combined, "chyle corpuscle" refers to a small particle or cell found in the chyle, which is responsible for transporting absorbed fats from the small intestine to the bloodstream.