Ciliated Bronchial Epithelial Cell

Cancer Terms -> Anatomic Structure System or Substance -> Microanatomy -> Cell -> Epithelial Cell -> Glandular Cell -> Columnar Cell -> Bronchial Epithelial Cell -> Ciliated Bronchial Epithelial Cell

Ciliated Bronchial Epithelial Cell Definition

A columnar-shaped cell found in the epithelium of the lobular bronchiole. Each cell contains 200-300 cilia 5-8 mm long. The cilia are part of the mucociliary system, which extends through the tracheobronchial tree and into the respiratory bronchioles. This system protects the respiratory surface from dirt and airborne infection and represents the principal mechanism of defense in the respiratory tract. The cilia beat in unison (about 1,000 strokes per minute) and in a wave-like fashion, thereby propelling mucus and entrapped foreign material toward the oropharynx for expectoration or swallowing.