APUD cell
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(ā'pəd)
n.
n.
A cell capable of amine precursor uptake and decarboxylation and of synthesizing and secreting polypeptide hormones.
Saunders Veterinary Dictionary:
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APUD cells
(amine precursor uptake and decarboxylation) a group of cells of common embryonic origin that secrete most of the body's hormones, with the exception of steroids. APUD cells comprise both specialized neurons and other endocrine cells. These cells synthesize structurally related polypeptides and biogenic amines. The acronym APUD derives from the fact that polypeptide production is linked to the uptake of a precursor amino acid and its decarboxylation in the cell to produce an amine. Examples of the peptide hormones are insulin, ACTH, glucagon and antidiuretic hormone. Examples of the amine hormones are dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin and histamine.
- APUD tumor — see apudoma.
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American Heritage Stedman's Medical Dictionary
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
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