Cell Function
pinocytosis Audio
pin·o·cy·to·sis [ pin-uh-sahy-toh-sis, pahy-nuh- ]
Subclass of:
Endocytosis
Definitions related to pinocytosis:
  • An endocytosis process that results in the uptake of liquid material by cells from their external environment; literally 'cell drinking'. Liquid is enclosed in vesicles, called pinosomes, formed by invagination of the plasma membrane.
    Gene Ontology Dictionary
    Gene Ontology Consortium, 2021
  • Engulfing of liquids by cells by a process of invagination and closure of the cell membrane to form fluid-filled vacuoles.
    CRISP Thesaurus
    National Institutes of Health, 2006
  • The engulfing of liquids by cells by a process of invagination and closure of the cell membrane to form fluid-filled vacuoles.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.