Goblet cells

Definition

Unicellular mucus-secreting glands of the simple columnar epithelium, characterized by a distended apical cytoplasm packed with mucin granules that gives the cell its characteristic goblet or wine-glass profile. In arthropods, goblet cells occur in the midgut epithelium of certain insects and other invertebrates, where they contribute to peritrophic matrix formation, enzyme packaging, or protective mucus barriers; in vertebrates they are abundant in respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. Secretion is typically merocrine (exocytosis of vesicles), though apocrine shedding may occur under stress.

Etymology

From the resemblance of the mucin-distended apical portion to a goblet or chalice.

Example

In the midgut of some lepidopteran larvae, goblet cells interspersed among columnar cells secrete components of the peritrophic matrix and help regulate ion transport across the gut epithelium.

Synonyms

• mucous cell
• unicellular gland

Related Terms

• columnar epithelium
• merocrine secretion
• apocrine secretion
• mucin
• peritrophic matrix
• Midgut
• epithelial cell

Usage Notes

The term is used across invertebrate and vertebrate zoology; in arthropod contexts, goblet cells are distinguished from the more common regenerative cells and secretory cells of the midgut. Not to be confused with the structurally distinct 'goblet' morphology of some nematocysts or with goblet-shaped sensilla. The shape is diagnostic: narrow basal region with nucleus, expanded apical region with secretory granules.