CELL POLARITY Meaning and
Definition
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Cell polarity refers to the asymmetric distribution of cellular components, structures, and processes within a single cell. It is a fundamental characteristic of cells that enables them to perform specialized functions and maintain tissue organization and integrity.
In a polarized cell, distinct regions or domains can be identified, often referred to as the apical and basolateral domains. The apical domain faces the external environment or a body cavity while the basolateral domain is in contact with adjacent cells or the extracellular matrix. Each domain possesses different sets of proteins, lipids, and organelles that contribute to their distinct functions.
The establishment and maintenance of cell polarity is crucial for various cellular processes such as cell division, migration, and signal transduction. It relies on complex molecular mechanisms involving cytoskeletal organization, membrane trafficking, and signaling pathways. Key regulators of cell polarity include proteins such as Par complex and Crumbs, which act as molecular scaffolds orchestrating the spatial arrangement of other proteins.
Cell polarity is particularly important during development, where it guides the formation of tissues and organs. It is also vital for the functioning of specialized epithelial cells like those lining the intestine or kidney tubules. Disruptions in cell polarity can lead to developmental defects, loss of tissue organization, and even cancer progression.
Overall, cell polarity is a fundamental property of cells that enables them to establish distinct functional compartments and play crucial roles in tissue homeostasis and morphogenesis.
Common Misspellings for CELL POLARITY
- xell polarity
- vell polarity
- fell polarity
- dell polarity
- cwll polarity
- csll polarity
- cdll polarity
- crll polarity
- c4ll polarity
- c3ll polarity
- cekl polarity
- cepl polarity
- ceol polarity
- celk polarity
- celp polarity
- celo polarity
- cell oolarity
- cell lolarity
- cell -olarity
- cell 0olarity
Etymology of CELL POLARITY
The word "cell polarity" has its etymology rooted in both Latin and Greek.
The term "cell" comes from the Latin word "cella", which means a small room or chamber. It was originally used to describe the small compartments observed when looking at biological structures under a microscope.
The term "polarity" comes from the Greek word "polaris", which means relating to a pole. In scientific terms, polarity refers to the property of having opposite charges or characteristics at different ends or regions.
Combining these roots, "cell polarity" refers to the property or state of having distinct and opposite characteristics or structures in different regions of a cell. It is used to describe cellular organization and asymmetry, where certain cellular components or molecules may be polarized or localized to specific regions within the cell.
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