PARIETAL CELL Meaning and
Definition
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A parietal cell refers to a specific type of cell found in the lining of the stomach known as the gastric mucosa. Parietal cells are primarily responsible for producing and secreting hydrochloric acid (HCl) into the stomach. This specialized cell is specifically located in the glandular region of the stomach called the oxyntic gland.
The parietal cell plays a critical role in the process of digestion by creating an acidic environment within the stomach. This acidic environment is essential for initiating the breakdown of food, aiding in the digestion of proteins, and preventing the growth of harmful bacteria present in consumed food. Parietal cells also secrete intrinsic factor, a protein required for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the intestines.
Structurally, parietal cells possess a unique network of transport proteins called H+/K+ ATPases, which actively transport protons (H+) into the stomach, leading to the production of stomach acid. Additionally, they possess an extensive network of tubular invaginations known as canaliculi, which increase the cell's surface area for increased secretion.
Disorders or dysfunctions of parietal cells can have adverse effects on digestion and overall stomach health. For instance, a decrease in parietal cell function may cause a reduction in the secretion of stomach acid, which can lead to an inadequate breakdown of proteins and hinder the absorption of essential nutrients. Conversely, an overactive parietal cell can result in increased acid production, leading to conditions such as gastric ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PARIETAL CELL
- oarietal cell
- larietal cell
- -arietal cell
- 0arietal cell
- pzrietal cell
- psrietal cell
- pwrietal cell
- pqrietal cell
- paeietal cell
- padietal cell
- pafietal cell
- patietal cell
- pa5ietal cell
- pa4ietal cell
- paruetal cell
- parjetal cell
- parketal cell
- paroetal cell
- par9etal cell
- par8etal cell
Etymology of PARIETAL CELL
The word "parietal" comes from the Latin word "parietalis", which means "relating to a wall". This term was used in anatomy to describe structures that are connected to or lining the walls of certain organs or cavities. In the case of the parietal cells, they are cells located in the gastric glands of the stomach walls. These cells secrete hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor, playing a crucial role in the digestion process. Thus, the term "parietal cell" refers to the cells lining the walls of the stomach.
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