part of part of mesothelial cell mesothelial cell of pleura Mesothelial cells of the pleura form a significant part of the pleural membrane, a thin, double-layered serous membrane that lines the thoracic cavity and encompasses the lungs. These specialized cells contribute to the pleura's key function of producing a lubricating serous fluid, which reduces friction between the lung's outer surface (visceral pleura) and the inner lining of the thoracic cavity (parietal pleura) during respiration. The cellular structure of mesothelial cells, characterized by microvilli on their surface, aids in the secretion and absorption of the pleural fluid, effectively supporting the smooth expansion and contraction of the lungs. Dysregulation in mesothelial cells can lead to pathologies, including pleural effusion and malignant mesothelioma. Mesothelial cells of the pleura display unique immunologic properties. They act as a first line of defense against infection because they are able to recognize pathogens and respond by secreting various cytokines and chemokines. Additionally, these cells are directly involved in the translocation of immune cells into the pleural cavity during inflammatory response, thereby playing an active role in the immune response within the pleural environment. In the event of pleural injury, these cells are also involved in the mesothelial-mesenchymal transition, a process that allows mesothelial cells to transdifferentiate into myofibroblasts and promote tissue repair. (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.) https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_1000491 FMA:86737 pleural mesothelial cell A mesothelial cell that is part of the pleura. pleura