Pinocytosis is a type of endocytosis where the cell engulfs extracellular fluid, including dissolved solutes. This process allows cells to intake nutrients and other necessary molecules from their environment.
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Pinocytosis is often referred to as 'cell drinking' since it involves the uptake of liquid.
It is a nonspecific process, meaning that cells do not selectively choose which molecules to ingest.
During pinocytosis, small vesicles form by invagination of the cell membrane.
This process requires energy in the form of ATP, classifying it as an active transport mechanism.
Pinocytosis helps maintain cellular homeostasis by regulating the internal fluid environment.