SEGMENTAL PAPILLAE Meaning and
Definition
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Segmental papillae, also known as circumvallate papillae, are specialized structures found on the human tongue that play a crucial role in gustation or the sense of taste. These papillae are situated towards the back of the tongue in an inverted V-shaped pattern and are larger and fewer in number compared to other types of papillae, such as fungiform and foliate papillae.
A defining characteristic of segmental papillae is their distinct appearance – they are circular or oval-shaped in nature. They are surrounded by a shallow trench known as a moat, created by the underlying connective tissue. These trenches separate the segmental papillae from the rest of the tongue's surface, giving them their alternate name, circumvallate papillae. Each individual segmental papilla contains numerous taste buds, the sensory receptors responsible for detecting different taste modalities.
The primary function of segmental papillae is to aid in the perception of taste. Taste buds themselves are housed within these papillae and are responsible for detecting the sensations of sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami. With their larger size and numerous taste buds, segmental papillae are especially adept at detecting bitter tastes. Additionally, they also contribute to the perception of texture, by helping individuals distinguish between smooth and rough substances.
In summary, segmental papillae are specialized structures on the tongue that house taste buds, enabling the sense of taste and helping in the perception of different tastes and textures.
Common Misspellings for SEGMENTAL PAPILLAE
- segmental papillau
- segmental papillam
- segmental papillaa
- segmental papillag
- segmentalpapiellae
- s egmental papillae
- se gmental papillae
- seg mental papillae
- segm ental papillae
- segme ntal papillae
- segmen tal papillae
- segment al papillae
- segmenta l papillae
- segmental papi llae
- segmental papil lae
- segmental papill ae
- segmental papilla e
Etymology of SEGMENTAL PAPILLAE
The etymology of "segmental papillae" can be understood by breaking down the words:
1. Segmental: The word "segmental" comes from the Latin word "segmentum", which means "a piece" or "a section". In biology, "segmental" refers to something that is divided into segments or sections.
2. Papillae: The word "papillae" comes from the Latin word "papilla", which means "small nipple" or "a fleshy projection". In anatomy, "papillae" are small, rounded or cone-shaped projections found on the surface of certain tissues or organs.
Therefore, "segmental papillae" refers to small, fleshy projections that are divided into segments or sections.
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