ZONULA Meaning and
Definition
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A zonula refers to a belt-like or band-like structure that encircles or forms a ring around a specific anatomical part or region. Derived from the Latin word "zona" meaning "belt" or "girdle," a zonula is often used in anatomical and physiological contexts to describe various structures or systems within the human body.
In ophthalmology, zonula refers to the zonular fibers, which are delicate, thread-like structures that suspend the lens of the eye in its appropriate position. These fibers form a zonular apparatus and are responsible for connecting the lens to the ciliary body, aiding in the adjustment of the lens shape for focusing on objects at varying distances.
In cell biology, the term zonula occludens, also known as tight junctions, describes the specialized junctions found between adjacent cells in epithelial and endothelial tissues. These tight junctions create a barrier that prevents the passage of substances through the intercellular space, thereby regulating the movement of ions, nutrients, and other molecules between cells.
Furthermore, a zonula can also refer to the ring-like structure formed by certain plant tissues, such as the zonula pellucida found in the ovum (egg cell), or the zonulae adhaerentes (adherens junctions) in plant cells, which play a crucial role in cell adhesion and communication.
Overall, zonula is a term used to describe various belt-like or ring-like structures within the human body and other organisms, highlighting their anatomical, physiological, and functional significance.
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A zone, especially a small zone.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ZONULA
- xonula
- sonula
- aonula
- zinula
- zknula
- zlnula
- zpnula
- z0nula
- z9nula
- zobula
- zomula
- zojula
- zohula
- zonyla
- zonhla
- zonjla
- zonila
- zon8la
- zon7la
Etymology of ZONULA
The word "zonula" has a Latin origin. It comes from the Latin term "zōnula", which means "a small belt" or "a narrow strip". The word is derived from the Latin noun "zōna", meaning "a belt" or "a girdle", which ultimately traces back to the Greek word "zone" (ζώνη). In both Latin and Greek, "zonula" refers to something that resembles or is related to a belt or a zone. In scientific terminology, "zonula" is often used to describe various structures or tissues that have a belt-like shape or function.
Similar spelling words for ZONULA
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