part of part of glandular secretory epithelial cell exocrine cell epithelial cell of alimentary canal salivary gland cell salivary gland glandular cell https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_1001596 salivary gland glandular cells Salivary gland glandular cells are specialized cells that make up the majority of the salivary glands. These glands can be found in and around the oral cavity, with the major ones being the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands. The glandular cells are responsible for the production and secretion of saliva, an essential fluid for oral health and digestion. Salivary gland glandular cells exhibit remarkable functionality with multiple roles in oral and digestive health maintenance. They generate and secrete saliva that contributes over 98% water to maintain mouth moisture, lubricate food to facilitate swallowing, and aid in tasting food. The saliva produced by these cells also contains electrolytes, mucus, antimicrobial agents, and enzymes such as amylase and lipase, which initiate the digestion of dietary starches and fats, respectively. These cells also play an integral part in maintaining oral health by aiding in the elimination of oral microbes and the neutralization of oral acids, thereby reducing the risk of tooth decay or cavities. In response to stimulation, these glandular cells release saliva through a network of ducts that open into the mouth. This secretion process can be increased during eating or chewing and decreased during sleep or dehydration. Its dysregulation can lead to conditions such as dry mouth or xerostomia. Thus, the normal function of salivary gland glandular cells is essential for the maintenance of oral health and the digestive process. (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.) Glandular cell of salivary gland. Example: Serous cells, mucous cells, cuboidal epithelial cells of the intercalated ducts, simple cuboidal epithelium of the striated ducts, epithelial cells of excretory ducts. CALOHA:TS-1282 saliva-secreting gland salivary gland epithelium