MESANGIAL CELL Meaning and
Definition
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A mesangial cell refers to a type of specialized cell that is found in the glomerulus of the kidney. The glomerulus is a microscopic structure responsible for filtering blood and producing urine, and it is composed of several components, including mesangial cells. Mesangial cells play a vital role in the regulation and maintenance of the glomerulus.
These cells are situated between the capillaries within the glomerulus, and their primary function is to provide structural support to the glomerular capillaries. They also play a crucial role in the regulation of blood flow and filtration in the glomerulus. Mesangial cells have contractile properties, enabling them to control the diameter of the capillaries and modify blood flow accordingly. Additionally, they can contract and relax in response to various signals, such as hormones and other biochemical factors.
Furthermore, mesangial cells also have phagocytic properties, meaning they are capable of engulfing and removing various particles and debris from the glomerulus. They are involved in clearing away immune complexes, cellular debris, and other waste materials, thus contributing to the proper functioning and health of the glomerulus. Moreover, these cells also participate in immune responses within the kidney, as they can secrete immunologically active substances.
In summary, mesangial cells are specialized cells found in the glomerulus of the kidney. They provide support to the capillaries, regulate blood flow and filtration, have phagocytic properties, and participate in immune responses. These cells are essential for the proper functioning and maintenance of the glomerulus and overall kidney function.
Common Misspellings for MESANGIAL CELL
- nesangial cell
- kesangial cell
- jesangial cell
- mwsangial cell
- mssangial cell
- mdsangial cell
- mrsangial cell
- m4sangial cell
- m3sangial cell
- meaangial cell
- mezangial cell
- mexangial cell
- medangial cell
- meeangial cell
- mewangial cell
- meszngial cell
- messngial cell
- meswngial cell
- mesqngial cell
- mesabgial cell
Etymology of MESANGIAL CELL
The term "mesangial cell" originates from a combination of Greek and Latin roots.
The word "mesangium" comes from the Greek word "mesos", meaning "middle", and "angeion", meaning "vessel". In the context of the kidney, the mesangium refers to the tissue located between the blood vessels in the glomerulus.
The term "cell" is derived from the Latin word "cella", meaning "small room" or "small chamber". It refers to the structural unit of all living organisms.
Thus, when combined, "mesangial cell" refers to the specialized cells found in the mesangium of the glomerulus in the kidney. These cells provide support and play essential roles in regulating the filtration process within the nephrons.
