Secretory component is spelled as /sɪˈkrɛtəri/ /ˈkɒmpənənt/. The first part of the word, "secretory," is pronounced with four syllables, with the stress on the second syllable. It is spelled as "s-i-k-r-e-t-o-r-i," with the first "s" being pronounced as the "s" in "sit." The second part of the word, "component," is pronounced with three syllables, with the stress on the first syllable. It is spelled as "k-o-m-p-u-n-e-n-t," with the "o" being pronounced as the "o" in "hot."
The secretory component refers to a glycoprotein that is produced by epithelial cells and is involved in the movement of certain substances across surfaces. It is commonly found in various body fluids like tears, saliva, breast milk, and mucosal secretions. The secretory component is also known as the secretory immunoglobulin transport receptor or polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR).
The main function of the secretory component is to assist in the transportation of immunoglobulins (antibodies) across mucosal surfaces, such as those lining the respiratory, digestive, and genitourinary tracts. It acts as a receptor for the immunoglobulin molecules called polymeric immunoglobulins, binding to them and facilitating their transport from the basolateral side (the side facing the underlying connective tissue) to the apical side (the side facing the external environment). This process is important for providing localized immune protection at mucosal surfaces.
The secretory component is responsible for protecting the immunoglobulins from degradation by enzymes present in various body fluids. By binding to the immunoglobulins, it shields them from the harsh external environment, promoting their stability and preventing their premature breakdown.
In summary, the secretory component is a glycoprotein produced by epithelial cells that is involved in the transportation of immunoglobulins across mucosal surfaces. It acts as a receptor for polymeric immunoglobulins and protects them from degradation, contributing to the body's immune defense at the mucosal interface with the external environment.
The word "secretory component" is coined from two root words: "secretory" and "component".
1. Secretory: The term "secretory" comes from the word "secretion", which refers to the process of releasing or producing a substance from a cell, gland, or organ. It is derived from the Latin word "secretus", which means "separated" or "set apart".
2. Component: The word "component" originates from the Latin word "componentem", which is the accusative form of "componens", meaning "a constituent part". It refers to an individual part or element that makes up a larger whole.
Therefore, when combined as "secretory component", the term signifies a specific part or element involved in a secretory process.