Respiratory bronchiole

Respiratory bronchiole

The respiratory bronchiole (pronunciation: /rɛspɪrətɔːri brɒŋkiːəʊl/) is a part of the respiratory system that serves as a conduit for air to reach the alveoli. It is the smallest type of bronchiole, located between the terminal bronchiole and the alveolar duct.

Etymology

The term "respiratory bronchiole" is derived from the Latin respirare meaning "to breathe" and the Greek bronkhos meaning "windpipe".

Structure

Respiratory bronchioles are the first part of the respiratory zone and are a transitional zone between the conducting and respiratory zones. They are lined by a simple cuboidal epithelium which is thinner than that in the terminal bronchioles. The walls of the respiratory bronchioles are interrupted by alveoli, which are small air sacs where gas exchange occurs.

Function

The primary function of the respiratory bronchioles is to conduct air to the alveoli for gas exchange. They also play a role in humidifying and warming the inhaled air.

Related Terms

• Bronchus
• Lung
• Alveoli
• Terminal bronchiole
• Alveolar duct

See Also

• Respiratory system
• Bronchial tree
• Pulmonary alveolus

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Respiratory bronchiole
• Wikipedia's article - Respiratory bronchiole

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