exocytosis

American  

[ek-soh-sahy-toh-sis] / ˌɛk soʊ saɪˈtoʊ sɪs /

noun

Physiology.

1. the transport of material out of a cell by means of a sac or vesicle that first engulfs the material and then is extruded through an opening in the cell membrane (distinguished from endocytosis).

---

exocytosis British  

/ ˌɛksəʊsaɪˈtəʊsɪs /

noun

1. a process by which material is exported from a biological cell

---

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• exocytotic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of exocytosis

1960–65; exo- + -cyte + -osis; cf. endocytosis

Compare meaning

How does exocytosis compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• endocytosis vs. exocytosis

Example Sentences

In capillaries, this single layer of cells is the location of diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the endothelial cells and red blood cells, as well as the exchange site via endocytosis and exocytosis.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Choose the statement that describes processes of receptor-mediated endocytosis, exocytosis, and the changes in the membrane organization.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Significant progress has been made recently in directly measuring the number of dopamine molecules stored in individual vesicles and the amount actually released when the vesicle undergoes exocytosis.

From Textbooks • Feb. 14, 2019

Undigested remains ultimately are expelled from the cell through exocytosis.

From Textbooks • Apr. 25, 2013

The neurotransmitter is released through exocytosis of vesicles containing the neurotransmitter molecules.

From Textbooks • Apr. 25, 2013