GOBLET CELL Meaning and
Definition
-
A goblet cell is a specialized type of cell found in the epithelial lining of various organs and tissues, particularly in the digestive and respiratory systems. It is named as such due to its shape resembling that of a goblet or chalice. Goblet cells are characterized by their unique structure and function, primarily related to the production and secretion of mucus.
Mucus is a slimy, gel-like substance that plays a vital role in protecting and lubricating the body's surfaces and organs. Goblet cells are responsible for synthesizing and releasing this mucus, helping to maintain the health and functionality of the tissues they reside in. They achieve this by secreting mucus through their apical surface, which faces the lumen or external environment.
These specialized cells possess a distinctive appearance, with a narrow base that widens towards a large, rounded apex. This shape accommodates an extensive amount of cytoplasm, rich in secretory granules containing preformed mucin proteins. When stimulated, goblet cells expel the granules, releasing the mucin contents as mucus.
While goblet cells are most prominent in the respiratory and digestive tracts, they can also be found in other locations, such as the conjunctiva of the eye. Their presence is essential for the proper functioning of these organs, as mucus helps to trap and neutralize harmful substances, provides lubrication, and facilitates the movement of food, fluids, and respiratory gases.
-
An epithelial cell which has been distended with mucin, and when this is discharged as mucus a crateriform or goblet-shaped shell remains.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for GOBLET CELL
- foblet cell
- voblet cell
- boblet cell
- hoblet cell
- yoblet cell
- toblet cell
- giblet cell
- gkblet cell
- glblet cell
- gpblet cell
- g0blet cell
- g9blet cell
- govlet cell
- gonlet cell
- gohlet cell
- goglet cell
- gobket cell
- gobpet cell
- goboet cell
Etymology of GOBLET CELL
The word "goblet" originated from the Latin word "gobletum", which means a drinking vessel or cup. The term "goblet cell" was coined in the mid-19th century by German anatomist and histologist Friedrich Gustav Jakob Henle. He described certain cells in the respiratory and digestive tracts that resembled a partially submerged goblet, thus leading to the name "goblet cells". These cells secrete mucus, which helps protect and lubricate the lining of these tracts.
