goblet cell

noun

Cell Biology.

1. a type of epithelial cell that secretes mucin, so called after its shape.

goblet cell

1. Any of the specialized epithelial cells, such as those found in the mucous membrane of the stomach, intestines, and respiratory passages, that secrete mucus. The goblet cells distend with mucin before secretion and collapse to a goblet shape after secretion.

Word History and Origins

Origin of goblet cell¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

In particular, goblet cells -- cup-shaped cells that secrete mucus -- expressed those genes only in the presence of ILC2s, a kind of immune cell.

Read more on Science Daily

Ms Lauder said her goal is to make as many memories as she can and she is hopeful that a cure for goblet cell carcinoma will be found in the future.

Read more on BBC

In that mechanism, mucus-producing goblet cells in the intestinal lining divide rapidly and secrete copiously while muscle cells in the intestinal walls step up their contractions—all to help force the invaders from the body.

Read more on Science Magazine

Mucus is produced by goblet cells and is composed of heavily glycosylated mucin proteins, as well as other protective molecules, such as trefoil factor, that contribute to epithelial restitution and repair.

Read more on Nature

Eve Lauder, 47, learned on her daughter's birthday that she had a rare cancer known as goblet cell carcinoma.

Read more on BBC