MULTIVESICULAR BODY Meaning and
Definition
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A multivesicular body (MVB) is a specialized cellular organelle that plays a crucial role in the endocytic pathway, specifically in the sorting and degradation of cellular components. It is a membrane-bound compartment found within the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells, involved in intracellular trafficking and recycling mechanisms.
The MVB is distinguished by its unique structure, characterized by the presence of numerous internal vesicles enclosed within a larger outer membrane. These internal vesicles, also known as intralumenal vesicles (ILVs), are formed through invagination and scission of the limiting membrane of the MVB. The ILVs contain a variety of proteins, lipids, and other cellular cargo, making them instrumental in the sorting and selective trafficking of molecules.
The primary function of the MVB is to act as an intermediary in the degradation and recycling of cargo molecules. It receives cargo through the endocytic pathway, which includes processes such as receptor-mediated endocytosis and phagocytosis. Once inside the MVB, the cargo can be sorted into different fates: either being targeted for degradation via fusion with lysosomes, or recycled back to the plasma membrane or other cellular compartments.
The MVB is involved in a diverse range of cellular processes, including receptor downregulation, antigen presentation, removal of damaged or misfolded proteins, and regulation of cell signaling pathways. Dysregulation of MVB function has been implicated in various pathological conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases, viral infections, and cancer.
In summary, a multivesicular body is a specialized cellular organelle responsible for the sorting, degradation, and recycling of cellular cargo through the formation of intralumenal vesicles within a larger membrane-bound compartment. It is an essential
Common Misspellings for MULTIVESICULAR BODY
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Etymology of MULTIVESICULAR BODY
The term "multivesicular body" can be broken down into two parts: "multi-" and "vesicular body".
The prefix "multi-" is derived from the Latin word "multus", meaning "many" or "numerous". It is commonly used in English to denote multiple or several instances of something.
The word "vesicular" is derived from the Latin word "vesicula", which means "small bladder" or "small sac". In biology, it generally refers to a structure resembling a small sac or vesicle.
The term "body" is used to describe a complex or organized structure.
Therefore, when combined, the term "multivesicular body" refers to a structure that contains numerous small vesicles or sac-like structures organized as a complex body. In biology, it specifically refers to a late endosomal compartment involved in intracellular transport and the formation of multi-vesicular bodies.
