Lamellipodia
Lamellipodia
Lamellipodia (pronunciation: la-mel-li-po-di-a) are thin, sheet-like protrusions that are found at the leading edge of migrating cells. They play a crucial role in cell migration and are involved in various biological processes such as wound healing, immune response, and cancer metastasis.
Etymology
The term "Lamellipodia" is derived from the Latin words 'lamella' meaning 'thin layer' and 'podium' meaning 'foot'. This term was coined to describe the thin, flat extensions of the cell that resemble feet.
Structure and Function
Lamellipodia are composed of a dense network of actin filaments. These actin filaments undergo continuous polymerization and depolymerization, which drives the protrusion of the cell membrane and allows the cell to move.
Lamellipodia also contain various proteins that regulate actin dynamics, such as Arp2/3 complex, cofilin, and formin. These proteins are crucial for the formation and function of lamellipodia.
Related Terms
- Filopodia: Thin, finger-like protrusions that extend from the cell membrane. They are similar to lamellipodia but have a different structure and function.
- Pseudopodia: Temporary protrusions of the cell membrane that are involved in cell movement and feeding.
- Cytoskeleton: The structural framework of the cell, which is composed of actin filaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lamellipodia
- Wikipedia's article - Lamellipodia
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