Coated Pits

Coated pits are small, pit-like structures found on the surface of cells. They are made up of a protein “coat” that surrounds a central core. Coated pits play an important role in the transport of material into and out of a cell. The proteins within the coat specifically recognize specific molecules and move them through the cell membrane. Without coated pits, many vital cellular processes would not be possible. They are essential for cells to properly absorb nutrients and hormones, as well as to release waste and toxins. As such, they are important to a wide variety of functions, ranging from cell growth and development to the maintenance of the immune system.