Question

Match Column-l with Column-II and select the correct option from the codes given below. Column-I \(\quad\) Column-II A. Van Kupffer cells (i) Islets of Langerhans B. \(\beta\)-cells (ii) Liver sinusoids C. Oxyntic cells (iii) Thyroid gland D. Paneth cells (iv) Stomach (v) Small intestine (a) \(A\)-(iv), \(B-(v), C-(i), D-(i i)\) (b) \(A\)-(iii), B-(i), C-(iv), D-(ii) (c) \(A-(i v), B-(v), C \cdot(i i i), D-(i)\) (d) \(A\)-(ii), B-(i), C-(iv), D-(v)

Short answer

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

Step-by-step solution

Associate A with the correct option

Van Kupffer cells are macrophages found within the liver and are associated with the liver sinusoids. Thus A matches with (ii).

Associate B with the correct option

\(\beta\)-cells are part of the pancreatic islets, or Islets of Langerhans, and are responsible for producing insulin in the pancreas. Thus B matches with (i).

Associate C with the correct option

Oxyntic cells, also known as parietal cells, are found in the stomach and are responsible for secreting hydrochloric acid. Thus C matches with (iv).

Associate D with the correct option

Paneth cells are located at the base of the crypts of Lieberkühn in the small intestine and are part of the immune system. Thus D matches with (v).

Choose the correct option

Based on the associations found in the previous steps, the correct pairing is (A) with (ii), (B) with (i), (C) with (iv), and (D) with (v). Option (d) reflects these matches.

Key concepts

Understanding Van Kupffer Cells

Van Kupffer cells are specialized macrophages located in the liver, primarily within the lining of the liver sinusoids. These cells play a critical role in the body's immune response by helping to break down bacteria and other pathogens filtered from the blood.

They are also involved in the metabolism of substances such as hemoglobin and also have a role in the storage of iron and vitamin A. Kupffer cells can become activated during liver injuries, participating in liver repair processes. One distinguishing feature of these cells is their ability to clear and phagocytize aged red blood cells, which highlights their essential role in maintaining homeostasis within the body.

The Role of Beta-cells

Beta-cells are found in the pancreas within the clusters known as the Islets of Langerhans. They are crucial for maintaining blood sugar levels by producing and secreting the hormone insulin.

Insulin is a vital hormone for glucose metabolism, as it facilitates the uptake of glucose by cells, therefore lowering blood glucose levels. A malfunction or destruction of beta-cells can lead to diabetes mellitus, a condition characterized by chronically elevated blood sugar levels. Beta-cells respond dynamically to fluctuations in blood glucose concentration, making them essential for energy balance and metabolism.

Oxyntic Cells Explained

Oxyntic cells, which are also known as parietal cells, are found in the lining of the stomach. Their primary function is to secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl), which is crucial for the initial digestion of proteins and the activation of digestive enzymes.

These cells also produce intrinsic factor, a glycoprotein essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine. Dysfunction in oxyntic cells can impair digestion and lead to conditions such as hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid) or achlorhydria (absence of stomach acid). Additionally, they are involved in the creation of an acidic environment in the stomach, which acts as a barrier to pathogens.

Paneth Cells Functionality

Paneth cells are specialized epithelial cells found at the base of the intestinal crypts of Lieberkühn, primarily in the small intestine. They have an important role in the body's defense mechanisms as part of the gastrointestinal immune system.

Paneth cells secrete antimicrobial molecules like lysozyme, defensins, and phospholipase A2, which contribute to maintaining the balance of the gut microbiota and protecting against microbial pathogens. They also secrete growth factors that help in the regulation and homeostasis of intestinal stem cells. Their secretions are essential in preserving the integrity of the gut epithelium and preventing the entry of harmful microorganisms into the body's internal environment.