Nurse cells

Definition

Specialized cells found in insect ovaries that surround and nourish developing oocytes, providing them with essential nutrients and other factors necessary for growth and development.

Etymology

From the Latin 'nutrire', meaning 'to feed'.

Example

Nurse cells in the polytrophic ovaries of Drosophila melanogaster surround the growing oocyte, providing it with essential nutrients.

Related Terms

• Oocyte
• Follicle cells
• Polytrophy

Usage Notes

The term 'nurse cell' is used because these cells actively nourish and support the developing oocyte.