What does microvilli mean?
Microvilli are small, finger-like projections of the cell membrane that increase the surface area for absorption and interaction with the surrounding environment. They are a characteristic feature of many cell types, including intestinal cells, kidney cells, and certain types of epithelial cells. Microvilli are often used in scientific and medical contexts to describe the structure and function of cells. The term microvilli is derived from the Greek words 'micro' meaning small and 'villus' meaning hair. Microvilli are an important adaptation that allows cells to interact with their environment and absorb nutrients. They are a key feature of many cellular processes, including nutrient absorption, cell signaling, and cell adhesion. Microvilli are also an important area of research in the fields of cell biology, physiology, and medicine.
nounMicrovilli are small, finger-like projections of the cell membrane that increase the surface area for absorption and interaction with the surrounding environment.
- Microvilli are small, finger-like projections of the cell membrane that increase the surface area for absorption and interaction with the surrounding environment.
"The intestinal cells of the small intestine have numerous microvilli that help to break down and absorb nutrients from food."
"The intestinal cells of the small intestine have numerous microvilli that help to break down and absorb nutrients from food."
"In electron microscopy, the microvilli of the cell membrane can be seen as small, finger-like projections."
The plural form of microvilli is the same as the singular form, as the term is uncountable.
"The intestinal cells of the small intestine have numerous microvilli that help to break down and absorb nutrients from food."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of microvilli
The term microvilli was first introduced in the 1950s to describe the small, finger-like projections of the cell membrane. The term is derived from the Greek words 'micro' meaning small and 'villus' meaning hair. The study of microvilli has been an important area of research in the fields of cell biology, physiology, and medicine.
How microvilli is actually used
Microvilli are a characteristic feature of many cell types, including intestinal cells, kidney cells, and certain types of epithelial cells. They are often used in scientific and medical contexts to describe the structure and function of cells.