Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

pinocytic

Adjective
/ˌpɪnoʊˈsaɪtɪk/
Definition
Relating to pinocytosis, a process by which cells take in small droplets of liquid.
Examples
  • Pinocytic processes are crucial for nutrient uptake in certain cell types.
  • The pinocytic activity of the cells allowed them to efficiently intake the surrounding fluid.
  • In lab studies, researchers observed heightened pinocytic behavior under specific stimuli.
Meaning
Pinocytic describes a specific form of endocytosis where cells absorb extracellular fluid along with its solutes by engulfing it in vesicles.
Synonyms
  • Endocytic
  • Fluid-phase endocytotic