Microfilament

Microfilament (pronounced: /ˌmaɪkrəʊˈfɪləmənt/) is a term used in Cell Biology to describe a small, rod-like structure present in the cytoplasm of many eukaryotic cells.

Etymology

The term "Microfilament" is derived from the Greek words "mikros" meaning small, and "filum" meaning thread.

Definition

Microfilaments are the thinnest filaments of the cytoskeleton, a structure that helps to maintain the cell's shape and is involved in many forms of cell movement. They are composed primarily of the protein actin and are often associated with myosin to carry out various cellular functions.

Function

Microfilaments have several important functions in eukaryotic cells. They play a key role in cell motility, especially in amoeboid movement, where the cell forms temporary projections called pseudopodia to move. They are also involved in cytokinesis, the process by which the cytoplasm of a cell is divided to form two daughter cells. In addition, microfilaments are crucial for muscle contraction in muscle cells, where they interact with myosin to cause contraction.

Related Terms

• Actin
• Myosin
• Cytoskeleton
• Cytokinesis
• Amoeboid movement
• Pseudopodia

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Microfilament
• Wikipedia's article - Microfilament

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