Acidophil cell

Acidophil cell

Histological section of the pars distalis showing acidophils, basophils, and chromophobes.

Acidophil cells are a type of endocrine cell found in the anterior pituitary gland. These cells are characterized by their affinity for acidic dyes, which stain them a reddish-pink color in histological sections. Acidophils are responsible for the production and secretion of important hormones that regulate various physiological processes.

Types of Acidophil Cells

Acidophil cells in the anterior pituitary are primarily divided into two types based on the hormones they produce:

Somatotrophs

Somatotrophs are acidophil cells that produce growth hormone (GH), also known as somatotropin. Growth hormone plays a crucial role in stimulating growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration in humans and other animals. It is essential for normal physical development in children and adolescents.

Lactotrophs

Lactotrophs are acidophil cells that secrete prolactin (PRL). Prolactin is involved in a variety of functions, most notably in the regulation of lactation in mammals. It also plays a role in immune system regulation and metabolism.

Histological Characteristics

Acidophil cells can be identified in histological sections of the anterior pituitary by their staining properties. They take up acidic dyes such as eosin, which gives them a distinct reddish-pink appearance. This staining characteristic is due to the presence of numerous secretory granules within the cells that contain the hormones they produce.

Function and Regulation

The function of acidophil cells is regulated by various factors, including hypothalamic hormones and feedback from the target organs. For example, the release of growth hormone from somatotrophs is stimulated by growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) from the hypothalamus and inhibited by somatostatin. Similarly, prolactin secretion from lactotrophs is primarily inhibited by dopamine, which acts as a prolactin-inhibiting factor.

Clinical Significance

Dysfunction of acidophil cells can lead to various clinical conditions. Overproduction of growth hormone can result in gigantism in children or acromegaly in adults. Conversely, insufficient production can lead to growth hormone deficiency, affecting growth and development. Abnormal prolactin levels can lead to conditions such as hyperprolactinemia, which can cause galactorrhea, infertility, and menstrual disorders.

Related Pages

• Anterior pituitary
• Endocrine system
• Hormone
• Pituitary gland

Acidophil cell

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  Histology of pars distalis of the anterior pituitary with chromophobes, basophils, and acidophils, annotated