Stuðningsfrumur

Stuðningsfrumur, often translated as sustentacular cells or supporting cells, are a type of cell found in various tissues throughout the body. Their primary function is to provide structural and metabolic support to other cells. This support can take several forms, including physical scaffolding, nutrient provision, and waste removal.

In the nervous system, particularly in the olfactory epithelium, stuðningsfrumur play a crucial role in supporting olfactory receptor neurons. They help to maintain the microenvironment of these sensory cells, which are responsible for detecting smells. These supporting cells are characterized by their elongated shape and the presence of microvilli on their apical surface. They are interconnected by tight junctions, forming a barrier that regulates the passage of substances into the olfactory epithelium.

Stuðningsfrumur are also found in other sensory organs. For example, in the cochlea of the inner ear, they form the tunnel of Corti and contribute to the structural integrity of the organ of Corti, which houses the sensory hair cells responsible for hearing. Their presence in these specialized sensory regions highlights their importance in maintaining the function and survival of highly sensitive cell populations. The term "stuðningsfrumur" broadly encompasses cells that provide essential support functions in diverse biological contexts.