Chapter 5 - Section 5.5 - Study Guide - Assess Your Learning Outcomes - Page 173: 5

Unicellular glands are relatively simple glands that consist of individual secretory cells dispersed among other non-secretory cells. These glands can be found in both the exocrine and endocrine categories. Here are examples of unicellular glands in each category: **Unicellular Exocrine Glands:** 1. **Goblet Cells:** Goblet cells are a classic example of unicellular exocrine glands. They are scattered among the epithelial cells lining various mucous membranes throughout the body, such as the respiratory tract and digestive tract. Goblet cells secrete mucus, a viscous and protective fluid that lubricates and helps trap foreign particles and pathogens, aiding in the protection of the underlying tissues. **Unicellular Endocrine Glands:** 1. **Enteroendocrine Cells:** Enteroendocrine cells are specialized endocrine cells scattered within the epithelial lining of the gastrointestinal tract (stomach and intestines). These cells secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate various aspects of digestion and metabolism. For example: - **Gastrin-Secreting Cells:** Gastrin is a hormone produced by enteroendocrine cells in the stomach. It stimulates the release of gastric acid and helps regulate digestive processes. - **Secretin-Secreting Cells:** Secretin is produced by enteroendocrine cells in the duodenum. It regulates the secretion of bicarbonate-rich pancreatic juice to neutralize stomach acid and aids in digestion. Unicellular glands are a unique feature of some epithelial tissues and provide a localized means of secreting important substances into either the external environment (in the case of goblet cells) or the bloodstream (in the case of enteroendocrine cells). These cells play critical roles in maintaining the health and functionality of the digestive and respiratory systems.

Unicellular glands are relatively simple glands that consist of individual secretory cells dispersed among other non-secretory cells. These glands can be found in both the exocrine and endocrine categories. Here are examples of unicellular glands in each category: **Unicellular Exocrine Glands:** 1. **Goblet Cells:** Goblet cells are a classic example of unicellular exocrine glands. They are scattered among the epithelial cells lining various mucous membranes throughout the body, such as the respiratory tract and digestive tract. Goblet cells secrete mucus, a viscous and protective fluid that lubricates and helps trap foreign particles and pathogens, aiding in the protection of the underlying tissues. **Unicellular Endocrine Glands:** 1. **Enteroendocrine Cells:** Enteroendocrine cells are specialized endocrine cells scattered within the epithelial lining of the gastrointestinal tract (stomach and intestines). These cells secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate various aspects of digestion and metabolism. For example: - **Gastrin-Secreting Cells:** Gastrin is a hormone produced by enteroendocrine cells in the stomach. It stimulates the release of gastric acid and helps regulate digestive processes. - **Secretin-Secreting Cells:** Secretin is produced by enteroendocrine cells in the duodenum. It regulates the secretion of bicarbonate-rich pancreatic juice to neutralize stomach acid and aids in digestion. Unicellular glands are a unique feature of some epithelial tissues and provide a localized means of secreting important substances into either the external environment (in the case of goblet cells) or the bloodstream (in the case of enteroendocrine cells). These cells play critical roles in maintaining the health and functionality of the digestive and respiratory systems.