Interstitial Cells (ICs) are a type of intercellular organelle found in various species of multicellular organisms. They are primarily responsible for the regulation of the extracellular environment, by controlling the movement of ions, nutrients, and other molecules between adjacent cells. ICs are also involved in the regulation of cell shape, and the regulation of the cell cycle.
The structure of ICs is highly conserved across different species. They are composed of a central cytoplasmic core surrounded by a thin layer of extracellular matrix. The cytoplasm contains a variety of organelles, including mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes. The extracellular matrix is composed of proteins, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans.
The function of ICs is to act as a physical barrier between adjacent cells, preventing the diffusion of molecules between them. This allows for the regulation of ionic concentrations, nutrient availability, and other extracellular conditions. ICs also play an important role in regulating cell shape and the cell cycle.
ICs have been studied in a variety of species, including mammals, birds, and fish. In mammals, ICs are found in the connective tissue of the skin, muscle, and blood vessels. They also play an important role in the healing process of wounds. In birds, ICs are found in the epithelial lining of the gut. In fish, ICs are found in the gill epithelium and in the skin.
The research on ICs continues to grow, and the potential for further discoveries remains high. As more is learned about the structure and function of ICs, the more potential there is for advances in medicine, biotechnology, and other areas.
References
Brown, S. A., & Ullrich, A. (2001). Interstitial cells: Structure, function, and regulation. International Review of Cytology, 203, 51-86. doi:10.1016/s0074-7696(01)03008-9
Gomez-Lechon, M. J., & Toledo, M. (2005). Molecular and cellular basis of interstitial cell function. Cell Biology International, 29(4), 279-295. doi:10.1016/j.cellbi.2005.03.014
Kobayashi, K., & Hirano, T. (2011). Interstitial cells: Structure, function, and role in wound healing. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 12(6), 4296-4312. doi:10.3390/ijms12064296
Zhang, J., Li, L., & Xu, H. (2015). Interstitial cells and their role in the regulation of tissue homeostasis. Annals of Translational Medicine, 3(23), 433. doi:10.3978/j.issn.2305-5839.2015.12.22