secretion
secretion describes the processes by which cells assemble materials and release them for action elsewhere. Commonly material is passed into a duct (exocrine secretion). For example, saliva, containing salts and enzymes, is assembled in the salivary gland cells, released into salivary ducts, and passed to the mouth to help with mastication and digestion. Other secretions are passed directly into the bloodstream (endocrine secretion). Generally the word is not used to describe how neurotransmitters or neurohormones are lost from cells; rather these are said to be released. Finally, secretion should not be confused with excretion, which refers to the loss of waste products from the body.
Alan W. Cuthbert
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secretion
