What does microfibril mean?
A microfibril is a small, thread-like structure that provides strength, rigidity, and elasticity to plant cell walls, bacterial cell walls, and connective tissue. Composed of cellulose, chitin, or other polysaccharides, microfibrils are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of these tissues. The term is widely used in biology, botany, and materials science to describe the microscopic components of plant and bacterial cell walls. Understanding microfibrils is crucial for studying plant growth, cell wall development, and biomaterials.
nounA microfibril is a small, thread-like structure composed of cellulose, chitin, or other polysaccharides, found in plant cell walls, bacterial cell walls, and connective tissue. Microfibrils provide strength, rigidity, and elasticity to these tissues.
- A small thread-like structure in plant cell walls and connective tissue.
- A component of bacterial cell walls.
"The plant cell wall is composed of a network of microfibrils embedded in a matrix of pectin and other polysaccharides."
"The microfibrils in plant cell walls provide structural support and maintain cell shape."
"Bacterial microfibrils are essential for maintaining cell wall integrity."
The plural form 'microfibrils' is used to describe multiple thread-like structures.
"The plant cell wall contains multiple microfibrils that provide structural support."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of microfibril
The term 'microfibril' originates from the Greek words 'mikros,' meaning small, and 'fibrilla,' meaning small fiber. The word has been used in scientific literature since the early 20th century to describe the microscopic thread-like structures found in plant and bacterial cell walls.
Usage notes
The term 'microfibril' is commonly used in biology, botany, and materials science to describe the structural components of plant and bacterial cell walls.