APUD cells
Pronunciation: AY-pud
Amine precursor uptake and decarboxylation cells; specialized neuroendocrine cells that concentrate and process amine precursors.
Full Definition
APUD cells are a diverse group of neuroendocrine cells characterized by their ability to take up amine precursors and convert them to bioactive amines through decarboxylation. The APUD concept, proposed by Pearse, suggested that these cells share common embryological, biochemical, and functional characteristics. These cells are found throughout the body, including the gut, pancreas, thyroid, and adrenal medulla. They produce various hormones and bioactive substances, and tumors arising from APUD cells often retain the ability to synthesize and secrete these compounds, leading to characteristic clinical syndromes.
Usage
Usage note: APUD is always written in capitals as it represents an acronym for the functional characteristics.
In Context
- "The carcinoid tumor arose from APUD cells in the terminal ileum and demonstrated intense chromogranin staining." — pathology report
- "APUD cells in the pancreatic islets can give rise to various functional neuroendocrine tumors." — review article