Cheek cells, also known as buccal epithelial cells, are the cells that make up the lining of the inside of your mouth. They are squamous epithelial cells, meaning they are flat and thin, and are constantly being shed and replaced. These cells are easily collected by gently scraping the inside of your cheek with a cotton swab.
Cheek cells are often used in scientific research and medical testing for various reasons:
- Non-invasive: Collecting cheek cells is a painless and non-invasive procedure, making it a convenient way to obtain biological samples.
- Easy to obtain: Cheek cells can be easily collected with a simple swab, making it a readily accessible source of cells for analysis.
- Represent body's fatty acid composition: Studies have shown that the fatty acid profile of cheek cell phospholipids can reflect the fatty acid composition of other tissues in the body, such as liver, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue.
- Used for diagnostic purposes: Cheek cells can be used to detect certain diseases, like lung cancer, through methods like shining diffuse light on the cells.
- Educational purposes: Cheek cells are commonly used in educational settings for microscopy and cell structure demonstrations.
Cheek cells serve a vital role in protecting the delicate tissues of the mouth and providing a barrier against external elements. Their constant turnover ensures the integrity of the oral cavity, contributing to overall oral health.
