Sinusoids
Sinusoids
Sinusoids (pronunciation: /ˈsaɪ.nə.sɔɪd/) are a type of small blood vessel found in certain organs, particularly the liver, bone marrow, and spleen. They are a subtype of capillaries, the smallest type of blood vessel, and are characterized by their unique structure and function.
Etymology
The term "sinusoid" comes from the Latin sinus, meaning "bay" or "fold", and the Greek -oid, meaning "like" or "resembling". This is in reference to the sinusoid's unique, folded structure, which resembles a series of small bays or inlets.
Structure and Function
Sinusoids are distinguished from other capillaries by their discontinuous, or "leaky", endothelium. This allows for the easy exchange of materials between the blood and the surrounding tissue. In the liver, for example, sinusoids play a crucial role in filtering toxins from the blood, as well as in the metabolism of lipids and carbohydrates.
In the bone marrow, sinusoids facilitate the release of newly formed blood cells into the circulation. In the spleen, they aid in the removal of old or damaged red blood cells.
Related Terms
- Capillaries: The smallest type of blood vessel, of which sinusoids are a subtype.
- Endothelium: The thin layer of cells that lines the interior surface of blood vessels, including sinusoids.
- Liver: An organ in which sinusoids play a crucial role in filtering toxins and metabolizing lipids and carbohydrates.
- Bone Marrow: The spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are produced. Sinusoids facilitate the release of these cells into the circulation.
- Spleen: An organ involved in the removal of old or damaged red blood cells, a process facilitated by sinusoids.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sinusoids
- Wikipedia's article - Sinusoids
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