part of part of mesothelial cell mesothelial cell of pleura mesothelial cell of visceral pleura Mesothelial cells of visceral pleura are specialized epithelial cells that line the inner layer of the pleura, the membrane that envelops the lungs. Positioned adjacent to the lung tissue, these cells form a protective barrier and contribute to the structure of the visceral pleura. They are characterized by their cuboidal to squamous epithelial shape and the presence of microvilli on their surface, a feature aiding in fluid and solute exchange between the pleura and the lungs. The primary function of mesothelial cells of visceral pleura is to secrete a lubricating serous fluid to facilitate smooth, frictionless lung movement within the thoracic cavity during respiration. This helps in the prevention of trauma or damage stemming from the constant rubbing of the lung tissue against the chest wall, hence playing a pivotal role in maintaining respiratory function. Besides fluid secretion, these cells have an essential role in the transportation of fluids and particles across the pleura, as well as in inflammation, wound healing, and tissue repair processes within the pleura. Mesothelial cells of visceral pleura are notably implicated in the development of pleural diseases such as pleural effusion and pleural mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer primarily linked with exposure to asbestos. Alterations, such as hyperplasia or metaplasia, may occur in these mesothelial cells under pathological conditions. (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.) A mesothelial cell that is part of the visceral pleura. FMA:86739 https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_1000493 Homo sapiens visceral pleura