noun
- a process by which a cell takes in liquid or small particles from its surroundings by forming a small pocket in its cell membrane that pinches off to form a vesicle inside the cell
Usage: biology term; also called cell drinking
Examples
- Pinocytosis allows cells to absorb nutrients and fluids from their environment.
- Unlike phagocytosis, pinocytosis involves the uptake of liquids rather than solid particles.
- The cell membrane invaginates during pinocytosis to engulf extracellular fluid.
- Pinocytosis is an important mechanism for cells to obtain water-soluble substances.
- Scientists study pinocytosis to understand how cells transport materials across their membranes.
- This endocytic process, pinocytosis, is essential for cell survival and function.