Canadian Medical Guide > Anatomy > Cells > Cellular Structures > Cell Surface Extensions > Flagella Terms and Definitions




Flagella

Medical Definition: A whiplike motility appendage present on the surface cells. Prokaryote flagella are composed of a protein called FLAGELLIN. Bacteria can have a single flagellum, a tuft at one pole, or multiple flagella covering the entire surface. In eukaryotes, flagella are threadlike protoplasmic extensions used to propel flagellates and sperm. Flagella have the same basic structure as CILIA but are longer in proportion to the cell bearing them and present in much smaller numbers. (From King & Stansfield, A Dictionary of Genetics, 4th ed)
Guide Notes: do not confuse with FLAGELLATA see MASTIGOPHORA, a subphylum of protozoa

Flagella Medical Definitions and Terms

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