MYONEMES Meaning and
Definition
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Myonemes refer to linear structures found in certain types of cells, particularly in ciliate protozoans. They are composed of bundles of contractile filaments called microtubules, and they function in generating force for various cellular movements and shape changes.
The term "myoneme" is derived from the words "myo" meaning muscle and "neme" meaning thread or filament, emphasizing their muscle-like properties. These structures are highly organized and exhibit a remarkable contractile ability, enabling cells to perform functions such as locomotion, contraction, and cytoplasmic streaming.
In ciliates, myonemes are particularly prominent and are responsible for the characteristic pulsating or beating motion of cilia on the cell surface. They act as a scaffold for the coordinated bending and movement of these hair-like projections, which serve important functions such as capturing food particles or generating fluid flow.
Myonemes are also essential for cell division and cytokinesis in certain protists. During this process, the myonemes help in the constriction and separation of the cell membrane, leading to the division of the cell into two daughter cells.
In summary, myonemes can be defined as contractile bundles of microtubules that play a crucial role in generating forces for cellular movements and shape changes, especially in ciliate protozoans.
Etymology of MYONEMES
The word "myonemes" is derived from the Greek word "mys" meaning muscle, and the suffix "-neme" which comes from the Greek word "nemein" meaning to distribute or to allocate. Therefore, "myonemes" refers to the filaments or contractile elements responsible for muscle movement or contraction.
