Pinacocytes (pinacoderm)
The flat cells on the outer surface of sponges (sponge epidermis)
Pinacocytes are specialized cells that make up the outermost layer of the body of sponges, which is known as the pinacoderm. These cells are flat and tile-like, forming a tight, continuous layer that covers the entire surface of the sponge.
The main function of pinacocytes is to protect the sponge from physical damage and invasion by pathogens. They are also involved in gas exchange, waste removal, and osmoregulation. Pinacocytes work together with other cells in the sponge, such as choanocytes and archaeocytes, to maintain the sponge’s overall health and well-being.
Pinacocytes are able to contract and relax, which allows the sponge to change shape and adapt to different environments. They also secrete a variety of substances, including enzymes, mucus, and spicules, which contribute to the sponge’s structural integrity and defense mechanisms.
Overall, pinacocytes play a critical role in the biology of sponges, which are important members of marine ecosystems and valuable resources for human medicine and biotechnology.
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