värekarvat

Värekarvat, also known as cilia, are microscopic, hair-like structures found on the surface of many eukaryotic cells. They are typically short and numerous, extending from the cell membrane. The structure of a värekarva consists of a basal body, which anchors it to the cell, and a shaft containing a characteristic arrangement of microtubules. This arrangement, known as a "9+2" pattern, involves nine pairs of microtubules surrounding a central pair. This specific organization is crucial for their function.

The primary role of värekarvat is to facilitate movement. In single-celled organisms, värekarvat can propel the cell through its environment. In multicellular organisms, they often line the surfaces of tissues and organs. For example, värekarvat in the respiratory tract sweep mucus and trapped particles upwards, helping to clear the airways. In the oviducts, they help to move an egg towards the uterus. The coordinated beating of thousands of värekarvat creates a current that can move fluids or particles. Defects in värekarvat function can lead to various health conditions, collectively known as ciliopathies.