How Do You Spell HEPATOCYTES?

Pronunciation: [hɛpˈatəsˌa͡ɪts] (IPA)

Hepatocytes is spelled with a silent "p" in the middle. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /hɛpətəsaɪts/. The "h" at the beginning of the word is pronounced as "hep," while the "a" in the first syllable is pronounced as "eh" as in "pet." The second syllable "to" sounds as "tow," and the third syllable "cy" is pronounced as "site." Lastly, the "s" at the end of the word is pronounced as "s". Hepatocytes are liver cells that play a crucial role in metabolism and detoxification.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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HEPATOCYTES Meaning and Definition

  1. Hepatocytes are specialized cells found in the liver that play a crucial role in its overall function. These cells make up the majority of liver tissue and are responsible for various metabolic processes necessary for maintaining homeostasis in the body.

    The primary function of hepatocytes is to synthesize and release bile, a substance critical for the digestion and absorption of dietary fats. In addition, hepatocytes also store and release glucose, converting excess sugar into glycogen and vice versa to regulate blood sugar levels. They are also involved in protein synthesis, producing both plasma proteins and enzymes necessary for various physiological processes.

    Hepatocytes have a remarkable ability to metabolize and detoxify harmful substances, such as drugs and toxins, making them essential for the body's defense against foreign substances. They accomplish this through a series of enzymatic reactions that convert these substances into less toxic or more easily excreted forms.

    Furthermore, hepatocytes are capable of regenerating and repairing damaged liver tissue, allowing the liver to recover from various injuries or illnesses. This regenerative ability is one of the unique characteristics of hepatocytes.

    Overall, hepatocytes are vital cells within the liver that perform a wide range of functions crucial for maintaining the body's overall health. Their role in metabolism, detoxification, and tissue regeneration underscores the importance of the liver in sustaining various physiological processes.

Common Misspellings for HEPATOCYTES

Etymology of HEPATOCYTES

The word "hepatocytes" is derived from two roots: "hepato-" and "-cytes".

The root "hepato-" is derived from the Greek word "hepar" (ἧπαρ), which means "liver". It is often used as a prefix in medical terminology to refer to elements or conditions related to the liver.

The suffix "-cytes" comes from the Greek word "kytos" (κύτος), meaning "cell". It is commonly used in biology to refer to cells or cellular structures.

Therefore, "hepatocytes" can be understood as liver cells.