Septate

Septate refers to a term used in biology to describe a structure that is divided by one or more walls or partitions. It is commonly used in the context of fungal hyphae, where the hyphae are divided into cells by internal cross-walls called "septa" (singular: septum). The septa are usually perforated by pores allowing for the exchange of cytoplasm, organelles, and other materials.

Structure and Function[edit | edit source]

In fungi, septate hyphae are a type of hyphae that have walls, or septa, separating the individual cells. These septa allow for the compartmentalization of the hyphae, which can be beneficial in preventing damage to the entire hyphae if one cell is injured. The septa also allow for controlled flow of cytoplasm, organelles, and other materials between the cells.

In addition to fungi, the term septate can also refer to structures in other organisms. For example, in anatomy, a septate uterus is a type of congenital malformation where the uterine cavity is divided by a longitudinal septum. It is one of the most common types of Müllerian duct anomalies.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

In medicine, the term septate is often used in the context of septate uterus, a condition that can lead to complications such as recurrent miscarriages and infertility. Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the septum and restore the normal shape of the uterus.

Septate hyphae can also have clinical significance in the identification of certain types of fungi. For example, the presence of septate hyphae is a characteristic feature of dermatophytes, a group of fungi that cause skin, hair, and nail infections.

References[edit | edit source]

Septate Resources
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