ENTEROENDOCRINE CELL Meaning and
Definition
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Enteroendocrine cells are specialized cells found in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, specifically in the stomach and intestines. These cells function as endocrine cells, meaning that they produce and release hormones directly into the bloodstream in response to various stimuli.
The main role of enteroendocrine cells is to regulate and coordinate several physiological functions of the gastrointestinal tract. They secrete different hormones that control digestion, absorption, and motility within the digestive system. These hormones include substances like gastrin, cholecystokinin, ghrelin, and secretin, among others.
Each type of enteroendocrine cell is unique and secretes a specific hormone that performs distinct functions. For example, G cells secrete gastrin, which stimulates the secretion of gastric acid in the stomach, while I cells release cholecystokinin in response to the presence of fat or protein in the small intestine, promoting the release of pancreatic enzymes and bile.
The signaling molecules secreted by enteroendocrine cells play a crucial role in the overall regulation of appetite, satiety, glucose homeostasis, and nutrient absorption. They also help in coordinating the interaction between the nervous system and the digestive system, ensuring proper communication and coordination to maintain optimal gastrointestinal function.
In summary, enteroendocrine cells are specialized cells of the gastrointestinal tract that produce and release hormones involved in the regulation of digestion, absorption, and motility. They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance and proper functioning of the digestive system.
Common Misspellings for ENTEROENDOCRINE CELL
- wnteroendocrine cell
- snteroendocrine cell
- dnteroendocrine cell
- rnteroendocrine cell
- 4nteroendocrine cell
- 3nteroendocrine cell
- ebteroendocrine cell
- emteroendocrine cell
- ejteroendocrine cell
- ehteroendocrine cell
- enreroendocrine cell
- enferoendocrine cell
- engeroendocrine cell
- enyeroendocrine cell
- en6eroendocrine cell
- en5eroendocrine cell
- entwroendocrine cell
- entsroendocrine cell
- entdroendocrine cell
- entrroendocrine cell
Etymology of ENTEROENDOCRINE CELL
The word "enteroendocrine" can be broken down into two parts: "entero" and "endocrine".
The term "entero" is derived from the Greek word "enteron", which means intestines. It is used to refer to the entire digestive system or the intestines specifically.
The word "endocrine" originates from the Greek words "endon", meaning within, and "krinein", meaning to separate or secrete. In biology, the endocrine system consists of glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream, regulating various bodily functions.
Therefore, an "enteroendocrine cell" refers to a type of cell found in the intestines or digestive system that functions as an endocrine cell by secreting hormones into the bloodstream.
