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Goblet cells are specialized epithelial cells that secrete mucus (a thick protective fluid) onto the mucosal surfaces of the body. They are named for their distinctive shape, which resembles a goblet or wineglass when viewed under a microscope.

Structure

Goblet cells are simple columnar glandular cells that are found in the epithelium of the respiratory and digestive tracts, and in the conjunctiva of the eyes. They are typically interspersed among other types of epithelial cells, such as ciliated cells in the respiratory tract and enterocytes in the digestive tract.

The apical portion of the goblet cell is expanded and filled with secretory granules, giving it a goblet-like appearance. The basal portion is narrow and contains the nucleus and other cellular organelles.

Function

The primary function of goblet cells is to produce and secrete mucus. Mucus serves several important functions in the body:

• It provides a protective barrier that prevents damage to the underlying epithelium from mechanical stress, chemical irritants, and pathogens.
• It traps inhaled particles and pathogens, which are then removed from the respiratory tract by the action of cilia.
• It lubricates the surfaces of the digestive and respiratory tracts, facilitating the passage of food and air.
• It maintains the moisture of the mucosal surfaces.

Goblet cells are also involved in the immune response. They can present antigens to immune cells, and they secrete cytokines and other immune modulators that influence the activity of other cells in the immune system.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in goblet cell function can contribute to various diseases. For example, in cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects mucus production, the mucus secreted by goblet cells is abnormally thick and sticky, leading to chronic respiratory infections and digestive problems. In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, there is an increase in the number of goblet cells in the respiratory tract, resulting in excessive mucus production and airway obstruction.

Goblet cell carcinoids are a rare type of tumor that arise from goblet cells in the appendix. They are characterized by a mixture of goblet cell and neuroendocrine features, and they have a more aggressive clinical course than typical appendiceal carcinoids.

See also

• Epithelium
• Mucus
• Respiratory tract
• Digestive tract
• Cystic fibrosis
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Asthma
• Goblet cell carcinoid