Question

difference between paneth cells and Goblet cells?

Answer 1

Goblet cells are simple columnar epithelial cells that secrete gel-forming mucins, like mucin MUC5AC. The goblet cells mainly use the merocrine method of secretion, secreting vesicles into a duct, but may use apocrine methods, budding off their secretions, when under stress. The term goblet refers to the cell's goblet-like shape. The apical portion is shaped like a cup, as it is distended by abundant mucus laden granules; its basal portion lacks these granules and is shaped like a stem.

Paneth cells are one of the principal cell types of the epithelium of the small intestine, along with goblet cells, enterocytes, and enteroendocrine cells.(A few may also be found sporadically in the cecum and appendix.) They are identified microscopically by their location just below the intestinal stem cells in the intestinal glands (also called crypts of Lieberkühn) and the large eosinophilic refractile granules that occupy most of their cytoplasm. These granules consist of several anti-microbial compounds and other compounds that are known to be important in immunity and host-defense. When exposed to bacteria or bacterial antigens, Paneth cells secrete some of these compounds into the lumen of the intestinal gland, thereby contributing to maintenance of the gastrointestinal barrier

Now about the functions of these cells..

Panethcells synthesize and secrete substantial quantities of antimicrobial peptides and proteins.

The main role of goblet cells is to secrete mucus in order to protect the mucous membranes where they are found.