Question

Match Column-I with Column-II and select the correct option from the codes given below. Column-I Column-II (Types of cells) (Secretions) A. Beta cells (i) Lysozyme B. Mast cells (ii) Mucus C. Paneth cells (iii) Histamine D Acinar cells (iv) Insulin (v) Pancreatic enzymes (a) \(A-(i v), B-(i i), C-(i), D-(v)\) (b) \(A-(v), B-(i i), C-(i i i), D-(i v)\) (c) \(A-(i v), B-(i i i), C-(i), D-(v)\) (d) \(A-(i i), B-(i i i), C-(i), D-(v)\)

Short answer

The correct option is (c) A-(iv), B-(iii), C-(i), D-(v).

Step-by-step solution

Match A: Beta cells

Identify the secretions of Beta cells. Beta cells are known for secreting Insulin which regulates blood glucose levels. Match A with (iv).

Match B: Mast cells

Identify the secretions of Mast cells. Mast cells play a role in allergic reactions and inflammation; they release Histamine. Match B with (iii).

Match C: Paneth cells

Identify the secretions of Paneth cells. Paneth cells are part of the immune system in the gut and secrete Lysozyme, which has antibacterial properties. Match C with (i).

Match D: Acinar cells

Identify the secretions of Acinar cells. Acinar cells are found in the pancreas and secret Pancreatic enzymes important for digestion. Match D with (v).

Identify the Correct Combination

By matching each type of cell with its secretion, the correct combination based on the options given is A-(iv), B-(iii), C-(i), and D-(v). Find this combination among the provided options.

Key concepts

Beta Cells and Insulin Production

In the bodies of humans and animals, beta cells play an irreplaceable role. Situated within the pancreas in clusters known as islets of Langerhans, these cells are responsible for the production and release of insulin. Insulin is a pivotal hormone which facilitates the regulation of glucose levels in the bloodstream. After a meal, blood glucose levels rise, signaling beta cells to secrete insulin, and this hormone assists cells in absorbing glucose to be used for energy production or for storage as glycogen in the liver.

The dysfunction or destruction of beta cells is closely associated with diabetes, a condition characterized by impaired glucose regulation. Type 1 diabetes occurs when beta cells are damaged by an autoimmune response, while Type 2 diabetes often correlates with a reduction in beta cell function or mass over time.

Mast Cells and Their Role in Releasing Histamine

Mast cells are an integral part of the immune system, predominantly residing in connective tissues and the linings of the stomach and lung. They possess granules rich in histamine and other chemicals that are vital for the body's allergic response and in the process of inflammation. When an allergen triggers these cells, they release histamine, which then expands blood vessels and makes them more permeable. This action facilitates other immune cells to access the affected area more easily.

In addition to allergic reactions, mast cells are also involved in wound healing and defense against pathogens. However, their role in allergic responses can also lead to conditions such as anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, indicating how crucial yet sensitive the balance of histamine release is to our health.

Paneth Cells and the Secretion of Lysozyme

The small intestine harbors specialized cells known as Paneth cells, which play a defensive role within the body's immune system. These cells are found at the base of the intestinal crypts. They secrete lysozyme, an enzyme with antibacterial properties that helps to protect the intestinal epithelium from bacterial invasion and maintain a balanced gut flora.

Lysozyme carries out its antibacterial actions by cleaving the peptidoglycan layer of bacteria, ultimately resulting in the degradation of the bacterial cell wall. This process assists in preventing the colonization of potentially harmful bacteria in the gut. Paneth cells thus contribute to the body's innate immunity and help sustain the delicate equilibrium of the gut microbiome.

Acinar Cells and Pancreatic Enzyme Secretion

Acinar cells, which belong to the exocrine part of the pancreas, are the primary units productive of pancreatic juices rich with digestive enzymes. These enzymes are crucial for the digestion of nutrients in the small intestine. Without them, the digestion and absorption of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates would be significantly impaired.

The enzymes produced by acinar cells include amylase, for starch digestion; lipase, for fat digestion; and proteases, such as trypsin and chymotrypsin, for protein digestion. These enzymes are secreted in an inactive form and are later activated within the intestinal lumen to prevent damage to the pancreas itself. Conditions such as pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas, can occur if these enzymes become active too soon and begin digesting the pancreas.