Protein-based structures that occur in certain cells of both the plant and animal world. Cilia are very tiny hair-like structures and occur in large numbers on the outside of certain cells. In higher organisms such as man, they usually function to move extracellular material along the cell surface. An example is the “sweeping-out-of-foreign matter” action of cilia in the bronchial tubes in which very small particles are moved into the throat to be expelled or swallowed. Lower organisms may use cilia for locomotion (swimming). Cilia are used in the swimming motion of bacteria towards sources of nutrients in a process called chemotaxis. Cilia are shorter and occur in larger numbers per cell than flagella. Singular: cilium.
Microscopic, hair like extensions of cells lining the interior of the bronchi, whose rhythmic beating moves fluids, mucus, and particulates out of the lungs.
The hairlike structures found in the bronchi.
Hair-like processes extending out from the surface of epithelial cells.
Small, hair-like projections on the surface of the mucosa that move in waves; singular is cilium.
Microscopic hair like extensions reaching out from the surface of a cell. Cilia have a wave motion in the lining of the inner ear and the lungs, for example, that help move fluids or mucus and other surface material.
A term applied to minute, lash-like processes which are seen with the aid of the microscope upon the cells covering certain mucous membranes — for example, the trachea (or windpipe) and nose — and which maintain movement in the fluid passing over these membranes. They are also found on certain bacteria which have the power of rapid movement.
Tiny hair like structures that line the air passages and sweep foreign particles away from the lungs.
Microscopic, hair-like protrusions found on specific cells throughout the body, known as cilia, engage in rhythmic whipping or lashing motions to facilitate the directed movement or transportation of substances and fluids within the body.
Cilia are slender, motile filaments present on the surface of certain epithelial cells. These hair-like structures are notably abundant in the linings of the respiratory tract, where they exhibit rhythmic movement. Their primary function is to facilitate the expulsion of dust and mucus from the airways by propelling them in a coordinated manner.
The tiny, hair-like projections extending from the cells lining the upper respiratory tract, which rhythmically move in a sweeping motion to transport dust, germs, and mucus.