Microvilli

Microvilli are microscopic cellular membrane protrusions that increase the surface area of cells and minimize any increase in volume, and are involved in a wide variety of functions, including absorption, secretion, cellular adhesion, and mechanotransduction.

Structure

Microvilli are covered in plasma membrane, which encloses cytoplasm and microfilaments. Though these structures are similar to cilia and flagella, they are not primarily motile. Each microvillus has a dense bundle of cross-linked actin filaments, which is attached to the plasma membrane at the tip and anchored to the terminal web of the cytoskeleton at the base.

Function

The primary function of microvilli is to increase the cell's surface area. This allows for greater absorption and secretion functions. They are often associated with the Brush border of the Small intestine, where they work to absorb nutrients from the lumen. They are also present on the surface of Egg cells, where they facilitate the absorption of nutrients from the female's body.

Clinical significance

Microvilli are also of particular clinical significance in the area of drug delivery. They can be targeted to increase the absorption of drugs, particularly in cases where it is desirable to bypass the liver's first pass metabolism.

See also

• Stereocilia
• Cilium
• Villus
• Brush border

References

Microvilli Resources
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