Chloragogen cells, also called y cells, are star-shaped cells in annelids involved with excretory functions and intermediary metabolism. These cells function similar to the liver found in vertebrates. Chloragogen tissue is most extensively studied in earthworms.[1]
These cells are derived from the inner coelomic epithelium and are present in the coelomic fluid of some annelids.[2] They have characteristic vesicular bulging due to their function in storing and transporting substances, and are yellow due to the presence of cytosolic granules known as chloragosomes.[3]
The most understood function of chloragogen tissue is its function in the excretory system. The cells accumulate and excrete nitrogenous wastes and silicates.[4] They are involved in the deamination of amino acids, synthesis of urea, storage of glycogen and toxin neutralization.