Serous demilune

Serous demilune is a term used in histology to describe a crescent-shaped structure found in some exocrine glands, particularly the salivary glands. The term "demilune" is derived from the French words "demi" meaning half and "lune" meaning moon, referring to the half-moon shape of these structures.

Etymology

The term "serous demilune" is derived from the Latin word "serosus" meaning "watery" or "serum-like", and the French words "demi" meaning "half" and "lune" meaning "moon". This refers to the half-moon shape of these structures and their production of a watery, serum-like substance.

Structure and Function

Serous demilunes are found in the acini of some exocrine glands, particularly the salivary glands. They are composed of serous cells, which are specialized for the production and secretion of serous fluid, a watery substance rich in enzymes and antibodies.

The serous demilunes are located at the ends of the acini, surrounding the mucous cells. They are thought to function as a kind of "cap" that helps to push the mucous secretion out of the gland.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in the structure or function of serous demilunes can lead to various medical conditions. For example, damage to the serous cells can result in decreased production of serous fluid, leading to conditions such as xerostomia (dry mouth).

Furthermore, serous demilunes can be affected by autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome, which targets the glands that produce moisture in the body, including the salivary glands.

See Also

• Exocrine gland
• Salivary gland
• Acinus
• Serous cell
• Mucous cell
• Xerostomia
• Sjögren's syndrome

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