adjective
- relating to or denoting a type of gland secretion in which the entire cell disintegrates to release its contents
Usage: biology/anatomy term; contrasts with apocrine and eccrine secretion
Examples
- Sebaceous glands are holocrine glands that produce sebum for skin lubrication.
- In holocrine secretion, the cell membrane ruptures and the entire cell becomes part of the secreted product.
- The meibomian glands of the eyelid are holocrine glands that secrete lipids.
- Unlike eccrine sweat glands, holocrine glands destroy themselves during the secretion process.