part of part of epithelial cell epithelial cell of lacrimal sac Epithelial cells of the lacrimal sac play a significant role in the physiology of tear drainage, acting as an integral part of the lacrimal drainage system. The lacrimal sac is part of the nasolacrimal duct system, a conduit which connects the eye to the nasal cavity, and is lined by multilayered, non-keratinizing, squamous epithelial cells. The epithelial cells of the lacrimal sac are specialized for the purpose of maintaining a moist environment and protecting the surface of the eye. They form a barrier that traps and removes potential contaminants from the tear film during the drainage process. These cells also actively contribute to tear turnover by expediting the drainage of excess tears. Dysfunctional epithelial cells of the lacrimal sac can lead to dacryocystitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the lacrimal sac. Epithelial cells of the lacrimal sac also perform various other tasks which ensure the overall health of the eye. They are involved in the regulation of immune responses within the lacrimal apparatus and may have a possible role in host-microbiome interactions. Thus, epithelial cells of the lacrimal sac play a multifaceted role in tear drainage and ocular surface defence, directly translating to eye health and vision quality. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) FMA:70560 https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_1000436 An epithelial cell that is part of the lacrimal sac. epithelial cell of nasolacrimal duct lacrimal sac