how does it work?
are thin, tail-like projections extending approximately 0.1 mm outwards
from the cells.
from the cells.
There are two types of cilia, motile cilia (moving cilia) and non-motile cilia.
Motile cilia constantly beat in a single direction, whilst non-motile cilia
typically sense the cells’ environment.
typically sense the cells’ environment.
why is it important?
motile cilia can be found in humans in the lining of the windpipe, where they
sweep mucus and dirt out of the lungs.
sweep mucus and dirt out of the lungs.
Proteins and other cargo are moved up and down the cilium by “molecular
motors”.
motors”.
They also do the job of moving other ‘things’ (fluid) along