Question

In a polarized secretory epithelial cell, such as in the intestinal Brunner's gland, where are the secretory granules concentrated?

1) Nucleus
2) Cytoplasm
3) Cell membrane
4) Golgi apparatus

Answer 1

In polarized secretory epithelial cells, secretory granules are concentrated near the cell membrane (option 3), awaiting secretion at the apical surface.

Step-by-step explanation:

In polarized secretory epithelial cells, such as those in the intestinal Brunner's gland, the secretory granules are concentrated near the cell membrane, specifically at the apical surface. This is because these epithelial cells are specialized for secretion, releasing mucous and specific chemical compounds onto their apical surfaces. The Golgi apparatus plays a key role in processing and packaging these secretory products before they are transported to the cell membrane for release.