Which of the following best describes a holocrine gland?

• A. A gland that transports hormones directly into the bloodstream
• B. A gland that secretes substances by pinching off a portion of the cell membrane
• C. A gland that releases its products by exocytosis without cell damage
• D. A gland in which entire cells disintegrate to release their secretions

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of a holocrine gland: Holocrine glands are a type of exocrine gland where the entire cell disintegrates to release its secretions. This process involves the breakdown of the cell itself, which contributes to the secretion.
2. Compare the options provided: Analyze each description to determine which matches the characteristics of a holocrine gland. For example, transporting hormones directly into the bloodstream is characteristic of endocrine glands, not holocrine glands.
3. Eliminate incorrect options: The option describing secretion by pinching off a portion of the cell membrane refers to apocrine glands, and the option describing secretion by exocytosis without cell damage refers to merocrine glands.
4. Identify the correct option: The description that matches the holocrine gland is the one stating that entire cells disintegrate to release their secretions.
5. Conclude the reasoning: Holocrine glands, such as sebaceous glands, release their products through the disintegration of the entire cell, making this the correct answer.