Apocrine
Apocrine
Apocrine (pronounced: /ˈæpəkrɪn/) is a term used in anatomy and physiology to describe a certain type of exocrine gland and the mode of secretion associated with it. The term is derived from the Greek words 'apo', meaning 'away from', and 'krinein', meaning 'to separate'.
Etymology
The term 'apocrine' was first used in the late 19th century and is derived from the Greek words 'apo' (away from) and 'krinein' (to separate). This refers to the method of secretion, where the top part of the cell breaks away and is released.
Function
Apocrine glands are found in several areas of the body, including the armpits, the areola of the breasts, and the genital area. They produce a thick, milky secretion that is released into the hair follicle. This secretion is usually odorless but can become pungent when it comes into contact with bacteria on the skin's surface.
Related Terms
- Exocrine gland: A gland that secretes substances onto an epithelial surface by way of a duct.
- Eccrine: Referring to a type of sweat gland that is widely distributed across the body and secretes directly onto the skin's surface.
- Merocrine: A term used to describe a method of secretion in which the cell remains intact.
- Holocrine: A term used to describe a method of secretion in which the entire cell disintegrates to release its contents.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Apocrine
- Wikipedia's article - Apocrine
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