The term "Hepatic Cell" refers to a cell in the liver which performs various metabolic functions. The IPA phonetic transcription for this term is /hɪˈpætɪk sɛl/. The first syllable "hep" is pronounced with a short "e" sound followed by a "p" sound, while the second syllable "atic" is pronounced with a long "a" sound, "t" sound, and "ik" sound. The whole term is spelled with a "h-e-p-a-t-i-c" followed by a space and "c-e-l-l" which is spelled as it sounds. Proper spelling is important in medical terminology as it helps maintain precision and clarity.
A hepatic cell, commonly known as a liver cell, refers to a specialized type of cell found within the liver tissue of an organism. The liver, being the largest internal organ in vertebrates, is comprised of numerous hepatic cells which fulfill crucial functions within the body.
Hepatic cells play a central role in the metabolic processes of the liver, as they are responsible for the synthesis, storage, and conversion of various substances. These cells possess a unique ability to detoxify harmful substances, metabolize drugs and other xenobiotics, and produce bile. Additionally, they are involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, which enable the regulation of blood sugar levels, the synthesis and breakdown of fats, and the production of proteins for various bodily functions.
Structurally, hepatic cells contain a large, centrally located nucleus and an abundance of intracellular organelles, such as mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. Their cytoplasm contains numerous tiny granules called hepatocyte granules. These specialized cells are interconnected by small channels known as bile canaliculi, which allow the transport of bile secreted by the hepatic cells into bile ducts.
In summary, hepatic cells are highly specialized cells found in the liver responsible for an array of essential metabolic functions, including detoxification, synthesis, and digestion. Their intricate structure and multiple functions contribute to the liver's crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and overall health.
The word "hepatic" refers to the liver in medical terminology, and "cell" refers to the basic structural and functional unit of living organisms.
The term "hepatic" comes from the Latin word "hepar", meaning "liver". It entered English in the late 17th century.
The term "cell" comes from the Latin word "cella", which means a small room or chamber. In the context of biology, it refers to the microscopic compartments that make up living organisms, first used in this sense by the English scientist Robert Hooke in the 17th century.
Therefore, the term "hepatic cell" refers specifically to the cells that make up the liver.