Cell protrusion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cell protrusion

[ˈsel prəˈtruːʒən ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

cell biology

Cell protrusion refers to the process in which a cell extends its membrane to form protrusions such as filopodia, lamellipodia, and invadopodia. These protrusions are essential for cell movement, adhesion, and communication with other cells.

Synonyms

cell extension, membrane extension.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cell protrusion	Use in scientific contexts describing the outward projection of a cell, often in relation to cell movement or structural changes. The researchers studied the mechanisms behind cell protrusion in migrating cells. Changes in cell protrusion dynamics were observed under the microscope.
cell extension	General term for describing the elongation of a cell or its parts in various biological contexts. During neural development, cell extension helps in forming connections between neurons. The cell extension process is crucial for proper tissue formation.
membrane extension	Specifically refers to the extension or spread of the cell membrane, often used in discussions about cellular or membrane dynamics. Membrane extension is vital for cell division and motility. The drug influenced the rate of membrane extension in the experimental cells.

Word

Description / Examples

cell protrusion

Use in scientific contexts describing the outward projection of a cell, often in relation to cell movement or structural changes.

The researchers studied the mechanisms behind cell protrusion in migrating cells.
Changes in cell protrusion dynamics were observed under the microscope.

cell extension

General term for describing the elongation of a cell or its parts in various biological contexts.

During neural development, cell extension helps in forming connections between neurons.
The cell extension process is crucial for proper tissue formation.

membrane extension

Specifically refers to the extension or spread of the cell membrane, often used in discussions about cellular or membrane dynamics.

Membrane extension is vital for cell division and motility.
The drug influenced the rate of membrane extension in the experimental cells.

Examples of usage

The cancer cells showed increased cell protrusion, allowing them to invade surrounding tissues.
The formation of filopodia is a common cell protrusion mechanism used by cells to sense their environment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

Protrusions like filopodia and lamellipodia help cells move, sense their environment, and communicate with each other.
These structures play key roles in processes such as wound healing, where cells need to reach out and migrate to the damaged area.
In development, these extensions are crucial for neurons to connect and create pathways for signals in the brain.

Health and Medicine

Cell protrusions can impact cancer progression; cancer cells often use these extensions to invade neighboring tissues.
Understanding how these structures work can lead to breakthroughs in regenerative medicine, aiding in healing or repairing tissues.
Research is ongoing into how controlling cell protrusions may help manipulate immune responses for better therapies.

Technology

Biomimicry in robotics looks to imitate cell protrusions for developing more adaptive, responsive machines.
3D printing technology envisions using principles of cell protrusions to create structures that can adapt in real-time.

Psychology and Neuroscience

The way neurons extend their tentacle-like protrusions is vital for brain development and the formation of memories.
Studies show that specific signals can promote or inhibit the growth of these protrusions, impacting neural network formation.

Origin of 'cell protrusion'

Main points about word origin

The word 'cell' comes from the Latin 'cella', meaning 'small room', referring to basic living units.
Protrusion is derived from the Latin word 'protrudere', meaning 'to push forward'. This explains how these parts extend out from the cell.

The term 'cell protrusion' originated in the field of cell biology in the late 20th century with advancements in microscopy and cell imaging techniques. Scientists began to observe and study the dynamic process of cell membrane extension, leading to the identification of various types of cell protrusions and their functional significance in cellular processes.