CYTOPLASMIC FILAMENT Meaning and
Definition
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Cytoplasmic Filament is a term used in cell biology to describe a type of long, slender, and thread-like structure present in the cytoplasm of a cell. It is composed of proteins that form a network within the cell, providing structural support and aiding in cell movement and shape.
These filaments, also known as cytoskeletal filaments, are part of the cytoskeleton, a complex and dynamic network of protein filaments that extend throughout the cytoplasm. The cytoskeleton not only helps maintain the cell's shape but also plays a crucial role in various cellular processes such as cell division, cell motility, and intracellular transport.
There are three main types of cytoplasmic filaments found in eukaryotic cells: microfilaments (also called actin filaments), intermediate filaments, and microtubules. Microfilaments are the thinnest filaments, made up of actin proteins, and are involved in cell contraction, locomotion, and the formation of cellular extensions. Intermediate filaments are a diverse group of filaments that provide mechanical strength to cells, acting as a scaffold. Microtubules, the largest filaments, are composed of tubulin proteins and play a crucial role in cell shape, intracellular transport, and the organization of the mitotic spindle during cell division.
Overall, cytoplasmic filaments are vital components of the cell's cytoskeleton, assisting in maintaining cell structure, controlling cell movement, and facilitating a range of cellular functions.
Common Misspellings for CYTOPLASMIC FILAMENT
- xytoplasmic filament
- vytoplasmic filament
- fytoplasmic filament
- dytoplasmic filament
- cttoplasmic filament
- cgtoplasmic filament
- chtoplasmic filament
- cutoplasmic filament
- c7toplasmic filament
- c6toplasmic filament
- cyroplasmic filament
- cyfoplasmic filament
- cygoplasmic filament
- cyyoplasmic filament
- cy6oplasmic filament
- cy5oplasmic filament
- cytiplasmic filament
- cytkplasmic filament
- cytlplasmic filament
- cytpplasmic filament
Etymology of CYTOPLASMIC FILAMENT
The word "cytoplasmic" is derived from the Greek words "kytos" meaning "container" or "cell", and "plasma" meaning "something formed or molded". In biology, cytoplasm refers to the jelly-like substance that fills the cell and surrounds the organelles.
The word "filament" is derived from the Latin word "filum", meaning "thread" or "fiber". In biology, a filament refers to a long, slender structure or thread-like component.
Therefore, "cytoplasmic filament" is a term that combines the Greek and Latin roots to describe a thread-like structure within the cytoplasm of a cell.
