Oxyphilic meaning

Oxyphilic refers to a cell or tissue that has an affinity for oxygen, with philic indicating a love or affinity for something.


Oxyphilic definitions

Word backwards cilihpyxo
Part of speech The word "oxyphilic" is an adjective.
Syllabic division ox-y-phil-ic
Plural The plural of the word "oxyphilic" is "oxyphilics."
Total letters 9
Vogais (2) o,i
Consonants (6) x,y,p,h,l,c

Oxyphilic Cells: Understanding Their Role in the Body

What are Oxyphilic Cells?

Oxyphilic cells, also known as Oncocytes or Hurthle cells, are a type of cell found in various organs of the body. These cells have a large number of mitochondria, which give them a distinctive granular appearance when viewed under a microscope. Oxyphilic cells are commonly found in the parathyroid gland, thyroid gland, salivary glands, and other organs.

The Function of Oxyphilic Cells

Oxyphilic cells play a crucial role in the body's metabolism and energy production. The abundance of mitochondria in these cells allows them to efficiently generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the primary energy currency of the cell. This high energy production capacity makes oxyphilic cells essential for various metabolic processes in the body.

Relationship with Disease

Changes in the number or function of oxyphilic cells can be associated with certain health conditions. For example, an increase in oxyphilic cells in the thyroid gland may indicate Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid. Additionally, the presence of oxyphilic cells in the parathyroid gland may be a sign of parathyroid adenoma.

Research and Future Implications

Studying oxyphilic cells can provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of various diseases and conditions. Researchers are exploring the potential of targeting oxyphilic cells for therapeutic interventions in certain conditions. Understanding the role of oxyphilic cells in health and disease could pave the way for new treatment strategies and advances in medical research.


Oxyphilic Examples

  1. The oxyphilic cells in the parathyroid gland play a role in calcium regulation.
  2. Oxyphilic tumors are often found in the kidney and thyroid gland.
  3. Pathologists use special stains to identify oxyphilic cells in tissue samples.
  4. Oxyphilic adenomas can sometimes be mistaken for other types of tumors.
  5. Researchers are studying the function of oxyphilic cells in various diseases.
  6. Oxyphilic granules can be seen under a microscope in certain cells.
  7. The presence of oxyphilic cells can indicate a specific type of cancer.
  8. Oxyphilic metaplasia is a condition where normal cells transform into oxyphilic cells.
  9. Oxyphilic cytoplasm is characterized by densely packed mitochondria.
  10. Endocrine glands often contain oxyphilic cells that secrete hormones.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 17/04/2024 - 08:49:38