Intercalated cell — Free Physiology Illustration

Physiology

Intercalated cell

A single specialized renal collecting duct intercalated cell shown in isolation as a compact cuboidal to slightly tall polygonal epithelial cell, occasionally flask-like or somewhat angular in outline. The cytoplasm is dense and slightly darker than a principal cell, in pink to pink-beige or pink-tan tones with a mildly granular appearance. It has a round, centrally placed dark nucleus. The apical surface is subtly irregular and more textured than that of a principal cell, with membrane folds, small vesicle-like details, and transporter-rich specializations suggesting ion or proton transport. Prominent apical and basolateral surfaces may be indicated to emphasize its specialized tubular epithelial function.

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