How Do You Spell PERICYTE?

Pronunciation: [pˌɛɹɪsˈa͡ɪt] (IPA)

Pericyte is a term used in biology to describe cells that surround the endothelial cells in capillaries and microvessels. The spelling of this word can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "peri," is pronounced /ˈpɛrɪ/, with stress on the first syllable. The second syllable, "cyte," is pronounced /saɪt/, with stress on the second syllable. Therefore, the correct spelling of this word is "pericyte" with stress on the first syllable and pronounced /ˈpɛrɪˌsaɪt/.

PERICYTE Meaning and Definition

1. A pericyte is a type of cell that is found in the walls of small blood vessels, known as capillaries. These cells are predominantly located at the outermost layer of the capillary walls, closely associated with the endothelial cells that form the inner lining of the blood vessels. Pericytes play a crucial role in regulating blood flow, angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), and maintaining the structural integrity of the blood vessel walls.

   Functionally, pericytes exhibit contractile properties, allowing them to contract and relax, thus regulating the blood flow through capillaries. They are involved in the constriction and dilation of blood vessels in response to various stimuli, such as changes in blood pressure or tissue demand for oxygen and nutrients. Additionally, pericytes have been shown to have a role in forming new blood vessels during tissue growth, wound healing, and organ development.

   In addition to their contractile functions, pericytes also have a supportive role, providing structural stability to the delicate capillary walls. They generate and maintain the extracellular matrix, which is a complex network of proteins and other molecules that support and protect the blood vessels. Furthermore, pericytes are involved in the regulation of immune responses, participating in the immune defense mechanisms within the blood vessels and influencing inflammation processes.

   Overall, pericytes are essential cells in the microcirculation system, contributing to proper blood flow regulation, vessel formation, tissue maintenance, and immune responses.

Common Misspellings for PERICYTE

• pericytw

Etymology of PERICYTE

The word "pericyte" is derived from the combination of two Greek terms: "peri", meaning around or surrounding, and "kytos", meaning cell. Therefore, "pericyte" can be literally interpreted as "cell around" or "cell surrounding". This etymology accurately reflects the role of pericytes as cells located around the walls of capillaries and small blood vessels in the body.