Parafollicular cell
Parafollicular cell
Parafollicular cells, also known as C cells, are cells in the thyroid gland that produce and secrete the hormone calcitonin. They are located in the spaces between the follicular cells of the thyroid.
Pronunciation
Parafollicular cell: /ˌpærəfəˈlɪkjʊlər sɛl/
Etymology
The term "parafollicular" is derived from the Latin "para" meaning "beside" and "follicular" referring to the follicles of the thyroid gland. The term "C cell" is short for "calcitonin cell", referring to the hormone these cells produce.
Function
Parafollicular cells are responsible for the production and secretion of the hormone calcitonin. Calcitonin plays a crucial role in the regulation of calcium levels in the body. It lowers blood calcium levels by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, cells that break down bone to release calcium into the bloodstream.
Related Terms
- Thyroid gland: An organ located in the neck that produces and secretes hormones that regulate growth and metabolism.
- Calcitonin: A hormone produced by the parafollicular cells that lowers blood calcium levels.
- Follicular cells: Cells in the thyroid gland that produce and secrete the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
- Osteoclasts: Cells that break down bone, releasing calcium into the bloodstream.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Parafollicular cell
- Wikipedia's article - Parafollicular cell
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