cilievävnad

Cilievävnad, also known as ciliated epithelium, is a type of tissue characterized by the presence of cilia, which are hair-like appendages that extend from the surface of cells. These cilia are motile and beat in a coordinated fashion, creating a current that moves substances along the surface of the tissue. This specialized epithelium is found in various parts of the body where movement of materials is essential.

In the respiratory system, cilievävnad lines the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles. The beating cilia in this region help to trap inhaled particles, such as dust and pathogens, in mucus and then propel this mucus upward towards the pharynx to be swallowed or expelled. This is a crucial defense mechanism for the lungs, preventing infection and maintaining clear airways.

Cilievävnad is also present in the female reproductive tract, specifically lining the fallopian tubes. Here, the cilia beat rhythmically to move the egg cell from the ovary towards the uterus. Similarly, in the uterus, cilievävnad plays a role in facilitating the transport of the fertilized egg or embryo.

The structure of cilievävnad involves specialized cells, often columnar or cuboidal, with cilia projecting from their apical surface. The underlying basement membrane supports the epithelial cells. The coordinated movement of these cilia is powered by microtubules arranged in a characteristic "9+2" pattern within each cilium, which interacts with motor proteins. The presence and function of cilievävnad are vital for numerous physiological processes, contributing to clearance, transport, and reproduction.