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goblet cell

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Also known as goblet cells

cell type

Key facts

System
Respiratory system
Shape
Simple columnar
Function
Mucin -producing epithelial cells
Latin
exocrimohsinoctus caliciformis
Mesh
D020397
Th
H3.04.03.0.00009, H3.04.03.0.00016, H3.05.00.0.00006

via Wikipedia infobox

Wikidata facts

Image
Gobletcell.jpg
Show 2 more facts
native label
exocrimohsinocytus caliciformis
Commons category
Goblet cells
Sources (2)

via Wikidata · CC0

~10 min read

Article

Goblet cells are simple columnar epithelial cells that secrete gel-forming mucins, like mucin 2 in the lower gastrointestinal tract, and mucin 5AC in the respiratory tract. The goblet cells mainly use the merocrine method of secretion, secreting vesicles into a duct, but may use apocrine methods, budding off their secretions, when under stress. The term goblet refers to the cell's goblet-like shape. The apical portion is shaped like a cup, as it is distended by abundant mucus laden granules; its basal portion lacks these granules and is shaped like a stem.

The goblet cell is highly polarized with the nucleus and other organelles concentrated at the base of the cell and secretory granules containing mucin, at the apical surface. The apical plasma membrane projects short microvilli to give an increased surface area for secretion.

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