Structure and Function of Different Organelles in Animal Cells
Structure and Function of Animal Cells
Animal cells are the basic structural unit of all animals and are responsible for performing various functions that are essential for the survival of the organism. These cells are typically smaller than plant cells and have a variety of unique organelles that allow them to carry out specific tasks.
The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, surrounds the cell and acts as a barrier that controls the movement of molecules in and out of the cell. The cytoplasm is the gel-like substance that fills the cell and contains all of the cell’s organelles. The nucleus is the control center of the cell, containing the cell’s genetic material in the form of DNA.
Mitochondria are the “powerhouses” of the cell, responsible for converting food into energy. The endoplasmic reticulum is a network of flattened sacs and tubules that help transport molecules within the cell.
The Golgi apparatus is responsible for processing and packaging molecules for transport outside of the cell. Ribosomes are responsible for synthesizing proteins using the instructions provided by the cell’s DNA. Lysosomes are responsible for breaking down waste products and cellular debris.
Animal cells also have other specialized organelles such as centrioles, which are cylindrical structures that help organize cell division, and microvilli and cilia, which are small, hair-like structures that are responsible for movement and sensing in some cells.
These organelles work together to carry out the various functions that are necessary for the survival of the organism. From maintaining homeostasis to carrying out metabolic reactions, animal cells are essential for the functioning of all animals.
The understanding of the structure and function of these cells is crucial for many fields, including medicine and biology.
Watch about animal cells explained in this video:
1. Cell membrane
The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, surrounds the cell and acts as a barrier that controls the movement of molecules in and out of the cell.
The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is a thin, semi-permeable layer that surrounds the animal, plant, and bacteria cells, and controls the movement of molecules in and out of the cell.
It is made up of a double layer of phospholipid molecules and acts as a barrier that keeps the cell’s contents separate from its surroundings. The cell membrane is also responsible for maintaining the cell’s shape and providing structural support.
The cell membrane is composed of two layers of phospholipid molecules, which are arranged in a bilayer structure. The phospholipid molecules are made up of a hydrophobic (water-fearing) tail and a hydrophilic (water-loving) head.
The hydrophobic tails of the phospholipid molecules face each other, while the hydrophilic heads face outward. This arrangement creates a barrier that prevents the movement of water-soluble molecules through the membrane.
The fluid mosaic model is the current scientific understanding of the structure and function of the cell membrane. The model proposes that the cell membrane is composed of a fluid, mosaic-like mixture of lipids and proteins that are constantly moving and interacting with each other.
The proteins that are present in the cell membrane are of various types, such as receptors, channels, and pumps, which interact with the lipids and help to control the movement of molecules into and out of the cell.
One of the most important functions of the cell membrane is selective permeability, which allows the cell to selectively control the movement of molecules in and out of the cell. The cell membrane uses a combination of passive and active transport mechanisms to control the movement of molecules.
Passive transport, such as diffusion and osmosis, allows molecules to move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. Active transport, such as facilitated diffusion and active transport, requires the cell to use energy to move molecules against the concentration gradient.
The cell membrane is also responsible for maintaining the cell’s shape and providing structural support. The cell membrane is composed of a fluid matrix of lipids and proteins that are constantly moving and interacting with each other. This allows the cell membrane to be flexible and adaptable, allowing the cell to change shape as needed.
The cell membrane is also involved in cell-to-cell communication and interaction. The cell membrane contains a variety of receptors and other proteins that allow the cell to interact with its environment.
For example, some receptors on the cell membrane allow the cell to respond to hormones and other signaling molecules. Other receptors on the cell membrane allow the cell to interact with other cells, such as in the process of cell adhesion.
The cell membrane also plays a crucial role in the immune system by recognizing foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses, and triggering an immune response.
The cell membrane contains a variety of receptors, known as antigens, that can recognize and bind to specific molecules. When an antigen on the cell membrane binds to a foreign substance, it triggers an immune response, which helps to protect the body from harmful invaders.
The cell membrane is an essential component of the cell, playing a vital role in maintaining the cell’s shape, controlling the movement of molecules in and out of the cell, and facilitating cell-to-cell communication and interaction.
The cell membrane is a complex structure that is composed of various types of lipids and proteins, which together form a fluid mosaic-like structure that is constantly moving and interacting with each other.
Understanding the cell membrane and its functions is crucial for many fields, including medicine, biology, and biotechnology.
2. Cytoplasm
The cytoplasm is the gel-like substance that fills the cell and contains all of the cell’s organelles.
The cytoplasm is the gel-like substance that fills the cell and contains all of the cell’s organelles. It is a complex mixture of water, ions, sugars, amino acids, and various other biomolecules.
The cytoplasm is a dynamic environment that is constantly changing, responding to the cell’s needs, and maintaining homeostasis.
The cytoplasm is divided into two main regions: the cytosol and the organelles. The cytosol is the fluid part of the cytoplasm that surrounds the organelles and contains various enzymes and biomolecules.
The organelles are specialized structures that are suspended in the cytosol and are responsible for carrying out specific functions. The organelles include the mitochondria, the endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi apparatus, ribosomes, lysosomes, and centrioles.
The cytoplasm plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis within the cell. It contains various enzymes and biomolecules that are necessary for maintaining the cell’s metabolism, such as enzymes that are involved in the breakdown of sugars and the synthesis of ATP, the cell’s main source of energy.
Additionally, the cytoplasm contains various ion channels and pumps that help to maintain the cell’s ion concentrations and pH levels.
The cytoplasm also plays a crucial role in cell movement. The cytoplasm contains various motor proteins that are responsible for the movement of organelles and the transport of molecules within the cell.
Microfilaments and microtubules, the cytoskeleton, which are made of protein and are present in the cytoplasm, also play a role in cell movement. Microfilaments and microtubules are responsible for maintaining the cell’s shape and providing structural support.
The cytoplasm also plays a crucial role in cell division. The cytoplasm contains various enzymes and proteins that are responsible for the replication of DNA, the separation of chromosomes, and the formation of the mitotic spindle.
Centrioles, which are cylindrical structures that are present in the cytoplasm, play a crucial role in the organization of cell division.
The cytoplasm also plays a crucial role in the storage of molecules and the regulation of gene expression. The cytoplasm contains various structures that are responsible for the storage of molecules, such as the endoplasmic reticulum, which is responsible for the storage of proteins, and the Golgi apparatus, which is responsible for the storage of lipids.
The cytoplasm also contains various enzymes and proteins that are responsible for the regulation of gene expression, such as the ribosomes, which are responsible for the synthesis of proteins.
The cytoplasm is a gel-like substance that fills the cell and contains all of the cell’s organelles. It plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis within the cell, cell movement, cell division, the storage of molecules, and the regulation of gene expression. The cytoplasm is a dynamic environment that is constantly changing, responding to the cell’s needs, and maintaining homeostasis. Understanding the cytoplasm and its functions is crucial for many fields, including medicine, biology, and biotechnology.
3. Nucleus
The nucleus is the control center of the cell, containing the cell’s genetic material in the form of DNA.
The nucleus is the control center of the cell, containing the cell’s genetic material in the form of DNA. It is a membrane-bound organelle that is found in eukaryotic cells, which are cells that have a true nucleus. The nucleus plays a crucial role in the cell’s functions, including cell growth and reproduction, and the regulation of gene expression.
The nucleus is surrounded by a double membrane called the nuclear envelope, which is made up of inner and outer nuclear membranes. The space between the two membranes is called the perinuclear space, and it is filled with a gel-like substance called the nucleoplasm.
The nuclear envelope is selectively permeable, meaning that it allows certain molecules to pass through while preventing others.
The most important function of the nucleus is to store and protect the cell’s genetic material, which is found in the form of DNA. The DNA is organized into structures called chromosomes, which are made up of long chains of DNA that are tightly coiled and compacted. The chromosomes are present in the nucleus during most of the cell’s life cycle.
The nucleus also plays a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression. The genetic information stored in the DNA is used to make proteins and other molecules that are necessary for the cell’s survival.
The process of gene expression is regulated by various proteins and enzymes that are present in the nucleus. These proteins and enzymes control when and how much of a particular gene is expressed, which helps to ensure that the cell’s metabolism is running smoothly.
The nucleus also plays a crucial role in cell growth and reproduction. The genetic information stored in the DNA is used to make new cells through the process of cell division.
The nucleus divides during cell division and ensures that each new cell receives a complete set of chromosomes. The division of the nucleus is a complex process that is regulated by various proteins and enzymes that are present in the nucleus.
The nucleus also plays a crucial role in the repair of damaged DNA. When DNA is damaged, the cell activates a process called DNA repair, which is responsible for fixing the damage. The DNA repair process is regulated by various proteins and enzymes that are present in the nucleus. The repair process helps to prevent mutations and ensure that the cell’s genetic material is accurate and stable.
The nucleus plays a vital role in the cell’s functions and the overall health of the organism. It is the control center of the cell and is responsible for storing and protecting the cell’s genetic material, which is in the form of DNA. The nucleus also plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression, cell growth and reproduction, and the repair of damaged DNA.
The nuclear envelope is selectively permeable, which allows certain molecules to pass through while preventing others.
Understanding the structure and function of the nucleus is crucial for many fields, including medicine, biology, and biotechnology. The nucleus plays a central role in the cell’s life and its malfunction can lead to many diseases. Therefore, the study of the nucleus is critical in order to understand and prevent these diseases.
4. Mitochondria
Mitochondria are the “powerhouses” of the cell, responsible for converting food into energy.
Mitochondria are organelles found within the cells of all eukaryotic organisms, including plants and animals. They are often referred to as the “powerhouses of the cell” because they are responsible for producing the majority of the cell’s energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
Mitochondria are unique in that they have their own DNA and are capable of replicating independently of the cell’s DNA. This has led scientists to believe that they were once free-living organisms that were engulfed by a larger host cell, forming a symbiotic relationship.
This theory, known as the endosymbiotic theory, was first proposed by Lynn Margulis in the 1970s and has since been supported by a significant amount of evidence.
Mitochondria are typically found in high numbers in cells that require a lot of energy, such as muscle cells and neurons. They are also present in lower numbers in cells that do not require as much energy, such as red blood cells.
The primary function of mitochondria is to produce ATP through a process known as cellular respiration. This process involves the oxidation of nutrients, such as glucose and fatty acids, and the transfer of electrons to oxygen, which ultimately results in the production of ATP.
In addition to producing ATP, mitochondria also play a role in other cellular processes, such as cell growth, differentiation, and death.
Mitochondria also play an important role in the body’s response to stress. They are able to sense changes in the cell’s environment and respond by altering their metabolism to produce more ATP or by initiating cell death.
This ability to respond to stress is important for maintaining the health of the cell and the organism as a whole.
Mitochondria are also involved in aging and the development of certain diseases. As cells age, their mitochondria become less efficient at producing ATP and more likely to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage the cell’s DNA and other molecules. This damage can lead to the development of diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
One of the most recent discoveries in mitochondria research is the interaction between mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER).
The interaction between these two organelles is known as the mitochondria-associated membrane (MAM) and it plays a crucial role in regulating cellular metabolism and stress response.
MAM also helps in the formation of autophagosomes, which are responsible for the degradation of damaged organelles and proteins.
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a common feature of many diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic disorders. Scientists are currently working to develop therapies that target mitochondria to treat these diseases. For example, drugs that increase the efficiency of the mitochondrial respiratory chain or that inhibit the production of ROS have been shown to be effective in treating certain diseases.
Mitochondria are essential organelles that play a key role in the production of energy, regulation of cell growth, and response to stress. They are also involved in aging and the development of certain diseases. The understanding of the function and regulation of mitochondria is crucial for the development of new therapies to treat a variety of diseases.
5. Endoplasmic reticulum
The endoplasmic reticulum is a network of flattened sacs and tubules that help transport molecules within the cell.
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a complex network of flattened sacs and tubules that is found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. It is responsible for a variety of important cellular functions, including protein synthesis, lipid metabolism, and the detoxification of harmful substances.
There are two types of ER: the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER). The RER is characterized by the presence of ribosomes, which are responsible for the synthesis of proteins.
These proteins are then transported to the lumen of the RER, where they are modified and folded into their proper shape.
Once they are properly folded, they are transported to the Golgi apparatus for further processing and eventual transport to their final destination, such as the plasma membrane or lysosomes.
The SER, on the other hand, does not have ribosomes attached to its surface. It is responsible for the synthesis and metabolism of lipids, as well as the detoxification of harmful substances.
For example, the SER contains enzymes that are responsible for the conversion of harmful substances into less toxic forms.
The ER is also closely linked to the mitochondria, the powerhouses of the cell, through the mitochondria-associated membrane (MAM). This interaction plays a crucial role in regulating cellular metabolism and stress response.
For example, the MAM helps to coordinate the transfer of lipids between the ER and mitochondria, and also helps in the formation of autophagosomes, which are responsible for the degradation of damaged organelles and proteins.
ER also plays a critical role in the process of protein folding and quality control. Proteins are synthesized on the ribosomes and then transported to the lumen of the ER, where they are folded and modified.
If proteins are not folded properly, they will be recognized by quality control mechanisms within the ER and will be tagged for degradation. This process is known as ER-associated degradation (ERAD).
ER stress and dysfunction are linked to a variety of diseases, such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic disorders. For example, studies have shown that ER stress is a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. The ER stress response also plays a role in cancer development and progression.
Scientists are currently working to develop therapies that target the ER to treat these diseases. For example, drugs that can reduce ER stress and improve protein folding have been shown to be effective in treating certain diseases.
Additionally, researchers are also exploring the use of gene therapy to correct genetic mutations that lead to ER dysfunction.
The endoplasmic reticulum is a complex network of flattened sacs and tubules that plays a critical role in a variety of cellular functions. It is responsible for protein synthesis, lipid metabolism, and detoxification.
The ER is closely linked to the mitochondria, and the interaction between these two organelles plays a crucial role in regulating cellular metabolism and stress response. ER dysfunction and stress are linked to a variety of diseases, and scientists are working to develop therapies that target the ER to treat these diseases.
6. Golgi apparatus
The Golgi apparatus is responsible for processing and packaging molecules for transport outside of the cell.
The Golgi apparatus, also known as the Golgi complex or Golgi body, is a stack of flattened, membrane-bound sacs found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. It is responsible for sorting, modifying, and packaging proteins and lipids that have been synthesized within the cell.
The Golgi plays a crucial role in the post-translational modification of proteins and lipids, which is necessary for their proper function and transport to their final destinations.
The Golgi is divided into three main regions: the cis-Golgi, medial-Golgi, and trans-Golgi. The cis-Golgi is the region closest to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and is responsible for receiving newly synthesized proteins and lipids from the ER.
The medial Golgi is responsible for further modification of the proteins and lipids, such as the addition of sugar molecules.
The trans-Golgi is responsible for sorting and packaging the modified proteins and lipids into vesicles for transport to their final destinations, such as the plasma membrane, lysosomes, or secretory granules.
The Golgi is also involved in the formation of lysosomes, which are organelles responsible for the degradation of waste materials and unwanted molecules within the cell. The Golgi produces lysosomal enzymes, which are then packaged into vesicles and transported to the lysosomes for use.
In addition to its role in protein and lipid modification and transport, the Golgi also plays a role in the regulation of cell growth and division. The Golgi is involved in the formation of the mitotic spindle, which is necessary for the proper segregation of chromosomes during cell division.
The Golgi is also involved in the formation of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which provides structural support for cells and tissues. It does this by producing and secreting various ECM components, such as collagen and glycosaminoglycans.
The Golgi is also closely linked to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the mitochondria through the ER-Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC). This interaction plays a crucial role in the regulation of protein and lipid transport, as well as cellular metabolism.
Dysfunction of the Golgi has been linked to a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic disorders. For example, studies have shown that Golgi dysfunction is a key factor in the development of certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer and lung cancer.
Scientists are currently working to develop therapies that target the Golgi to treat these diseases. For example, drugs that can inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells by targeting the Golgi have been shown to be effective in treating certain types of cancer.
Additionally, researchers are also exploring the use of gene therapy to correct genetic mutations that lead to Golgi dysfunction.
The Golgi apparatus, also known as the Golgi complex or Golgi body, is a stack of flattened, membrane-bound sacs found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. It plays a crucial role in the post-translational modification of proteins and lipids, sorting, packaging, and transport of these molecules to their final destinations.
It is also involved in the formation of lysosomes, regulation of cell growth and division, and formation of extracellular matrix. The Golgi is closely linked to the ER and the mitochondria, and its dysfunction has been linked to a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic disorders.
7. Ribosomes
Ribosomes are responsible for synthesizing proteins using the instructions provided by the cell’s DNA.
Ribosomes are small, spherical organelles found in the cytoplasm of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. They are responsible for the synthesis of proteins, which are essential for a wide range of cellular functions such as structural support, enzymatic activity, and cell-to-cell communication.
Ribosomes are composed of two subunits: the larger 60S subunit and the smaller 40S subunit. These subunits come together to form a functional ribosome, which is responsible for the synthesis of proteins.
The process of protein synthesis, known as translation, begins when an mRNA molecule binds to the small subunit of the ribosome. This binding brings the mRNA into close proximity with a transfer RNA (tRNA), which carries the appropriate amino acid that corresponds to the codon on the mRNA.
The ribosome then catalyzes the formation of a peptide bond between the amino acid carried by the tRNA and the next amino acid in the sequence, as dictated by the mRNA. This process continues until the entire protein has been synthesized.
Ribosomes can be found in different locations within the cell. Some are free in the cytoplasm, while others are bound to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and are referred to as rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER).
The RER-bound ribosomes are responsible for the synthesis of proteins that will be secreted from the cell or transported to other organelles within the cell.
Ribosomes are also involved in the process of quality control, ensuring that only properly folded proteins are allowed to leave the RER and enter the cell.
The process of protein folding is a complex process and if it is not done properly, the protein will be recognized by quality control mechanisms within the RER and will be tagged for degradation.
Ribosomes are also involved in the regulation of protein synthesis, which is tightly controlled by the cell. For example, the cell can increase or decrease the number of ribosomes in response to changes in protein synthesis needs. The cell can also regulate the rate of protein synthesis by controlling the availability of mRNA and tRNA.
Ribosome dysfunction has been linked to a variety of diseases, such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic disorders. For example, studies have shown that ribosome dysfunction is a key factor in the development of certain types of cancer, such as lung cancer and breast cancer.
Ribosomes are small, spherical organelles found in the cytoplasm of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. They are responsible for the synthesis of proteins through a process known as translation.
They are found in different locations within the cell, some are free in the cytoplasm and others are bound to the endoplasmic reticulum.
They are also involved in quality control, folding, and regulation of protein synthesis. Ribosome dysfunction has been linked to a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic disorders.
8. Lysosomes
Lysosomes are small, spherical organelles found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. They are responsible for the degradation of waste materials and unwanted molecules within the cell.
Lysosomes contain a variety of hydrolytic enzymes, such as acid phosphatase, lipases, and nucleases, which are capable of breaking down a wide range of molecules, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.
Lysosomes are formed in the Golgi apparatus and then transported to the cell’s cytoplasm. Once in the cytoplasm, lysosomes can fuse with other organelles, such as endosomes or phagosomes, to degrade the contents.
This process is known as autophagy and it helps to remove damaged or unnecessary organelles, as well as pathogens, from the cell.
Lysosomes play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the cell and the organism as a whole. They are involved in the removal of waste materials, the recycling of cellular components, and the defense against pathogens.
They also play an important role in the regulation of cell growth and death, as well as the maintenance of cellular homeostasis.
Lysosomal dysfunction is linked to a variety of diseases, such as lysosomal storage disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. Lysosomal storage disorders are a group of inherited diseases caused by mutations in lysosomal enzymes.
These mutations result in the accumulation of waste materials within the lysosomes, leading to a wide range of symptoms. For example, Tay-Sachs disease is a lysosomal storage disorder that results in the accumulation of a fatty substance called ganglioside GM2 in the brain, leading to severe neurological symptoms and death.
Lysosomes are small, spherical organelles found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. They play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the cell and the organism as a whole by removing waste materials, recycling cellular components, and defending against pathogens.
Lysosomal dysfunction is linked to a variety of diseases, such as lysosomal storage disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. Researchers are currently working to develop therapies that target lysosomes to treat these diseases.
9. Centrioles
Centrioles are cylindrical structures that help organize cell division.
Centrioles are small cylindrical organelles found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. They play a crucial role in cell division by organizing the formation of the mitotic spindle, which is necessary for the proper segregation of chromosomes during cell division.
Centrioles are composed of microtubules, which are protein structures that provide structural support to cells and also play a role in cell movement.
Each centriole is composed of two perpendicular sets of microtubules called the “A” and “B” microtubules. These microtubules are arranged in a specific pattern to form the centriole’s characteristic “9+3” structure.
During cell division, the centrioles replicate and move to opposite poles of the cell. They then organize the formation of the mitotic spindle, which is composed of microtubules that extend from the centrioles to the chromosomes.
The mitotic spindle plays a crucial role in the proper segregation of chromosomes during cell division, ensuring that each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes.
Centrioles are also involved in the formation of cilia and flagella, which are hair-like structures that protrude from the cell surface and are involved in cell movement. Cilia and flagella are also composed of microtubules, and centrioles play a role in their formation by providing the microtubules that make up their core.
Centrioles are only found in animal cells, and their absence in certain cell types such as neurons and muscle cells is still a mystery for scientists. Centriole dysfunction has been linked to a variety of diseases, such as cancer and developmental disorders.
Centrioles are small organelles found in eukaryotic cells that play a crucial role in cell division by organizing the formation of the mitotic spindle, which is necessary for the proper segregation of chromosomes during cell division.
Centrioles are also involved in the formation of cilia and flagella and are composed of microtubules. Centrioles are only found in animal cells, and their absence in certain cell types is still a mystery for scientists. Centriole dysfunction has been linked to a variety of diseases, such as cancer and developmental disorders.
10. Microvilli and cilia
Microvilli and cilia are small, hair-like structures that are responsible for movement and sensing in some cells.
Microvilli and cilia are structures found on the surface of certain eukaryotic cells. Microvilli are small, finger-like protrusions that increase the cell’s surface area and are involved in absorption, sensing, and signaling.
They are composed of microvilli-specific actin filaments and are typically found on the surface of cells that line body cavities and tubes, such as the small intestine and the respiratory tract.
They are involved in the absorption of nutrients and other molecules across the cell membrane, and also in sensing the chemical composition of the environment. Microvilli are also involved in signaling pathways and cell-cell communication.
Cilia, on the other hand, are similar to microvilli but are typically longer, stiffer, and move in a coordinated fashion. They are involved in cell movement and fluid flow. Cilia are found on the surface of cells that line body cavities, such as the respiratory and reproductive tracts, and also on specialized cells called ciliated cells.
Cilia are composed of microtubules and are typically responsible for the movement of fluids and particles along the surface of the cell. Cilia also play an important role in the movement of the egg and sperm during fertilization and also in the removal of mucus and other debris in the respiratory and reproductive tracts.
Both microvilli and cilia are necessary for the proper functioning of the cell and the organism as a whole. Defects in their structure or function have been linked to a variety of diseases such as polycystic kidney disease, primary ciliary dyskinesia, and cancer.
In conclusion, Microvilli and cilia are structures found on the surface of certain eukaryotic cells. Microvilli are small finger-like protrusions that increase the cell’s surface area and are involved in absorption, sensing, and signaling, while cilia are longer, stiffer and move in a coordinated fashion, and are involved in cell movement and fluid flow. They both play a crucial role in the proper functioning of the cell and the organism as a whole. Defects in their structure or function have been linked to a variety of diseases.