A process by which liquid droplets are ingested by a living cell is known as?

Appeared in: BSF Staff Nurse - 2021

Explanation

Pinocytosis is the correct term for the cellular process of ingesting liquid droplets and dissolved solutes from the extracellular environment.
The name literally means 'cell drinking' (from Greek 'pino-' meaning 'to drink' and '-cytosis' referring to the cell).
During pinocytosis, the cell membrane invaginates (folds inward) to form small vesicles, trapping the fluid inside.
This is a common process used by many cells in the body to take up fluids and nutrients.

Option B: Phagocytosis involves the ingestion of large, solid particles, not liquid droplets. Its name means 'cell eating'.
Option C: Cytosis is a very general and non-specific term. While it relates to cellular processes, it does not specifically describe the ingestion of liquid droplets. Standard biological terminology requires the more precise term.
Option D: This option is incorrect because a correct answer, Pinocytosis, is listed among the choices.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Cellular Transport Mechanisms: Endocytosis as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Pinocytosis is vital for cells in the kidney tubules to reabsorb water and solutes from urine, preventing their loss from the body.
Cells lining the capillaries (endothelial cells) use pinocytosis to take in plasma proteins.
Phagocytosis, the counterpart for solids, is a cornerstone of the immune system. Macrophages and neutrophils are professional phagocytes that engulf and destroy pathogens like bacteria.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the question stem and identify the key phrase: 'liquid droplets are ingested'.
Break down the options based on their Greek roots if you know them. 'Pino-' means 'to drink', and 'phago-' means 'to eat'.
Match the key phrase 'liquid droplets' with the most appropriate term. 'Drinking' corresponds to liquids.
Therefore, Pinocytosis ('cell drinking') is the logical answer for ingesting liquid.
Eliminate Phagocytosis ('cell eating') as it relates to solids.
Recognize that 'Cytosis' is too general and 'None of the above' is incorrect because a valid option exists.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Physiology Guyton 4SAE Part 1 p. 46-48

E6 Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry2023 (pp 26-793 of 813) p. 466-468

Practise the full BSF Staff Nurse - 2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.