Goblet cell
Epithelial cells that secrete mucins / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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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.[1] 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.[2] 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.
Goblet cell | |
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Details | |
System | Respiratory system |
Shape | Simple columnar |
Function | Mucin-producing epithelial cells |
Identifiers | |
Latin | exocrimohsinoctus caliciformis |
MeSH | D020397 |
TH | H3.04.03.0.00009, H3.04.03.0.00016, H3.05.00.0.00006 |
FMA | 13148 |
Anatomical terms of microanatomy |
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.[1] The apical plasma membrane projects short microvilli to give an increased surface area for secretion.[3]
Goblet cells are typically found in the respiratory, reproductive and lower gastrointestinal tract and are surrounded by other columnar cells.[1] Biased differentiation of airway basal cells in the respiratory epithelium, into goblet cells plays a key role in the excessive mucus production, known as mucus hypersecretion seen in many respiratory diseases, including chronic bronchitis, and asthma.[4][5]