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Apical structure of human respiratory cilia
Bulletin Europeen De Physiopathologie Respiratoire
|January 1, 1986
Summary
Human respiratory cilia possess a unique apical structure with a dense cap and crown-shaped glycocalyx. These structures may play a role in microtubule assembly, ciliary movement, and mucociliary transport.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Cilia are crucial for mucociliary transport in the human respiratory system.
- The detailed apical structure of respiratory cilia remains incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the ultrastructure of the apical region of human respiratory cilia.
- To identify components and potential functions of the ciliary apical apparatus.
Main Methods:
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was employed.
- Thin and thick sectioning techniques were utilized for detailed imaging.
Main Results:
- The mature cilium's distal end features a narrowed region with dense material and a crown-shaped glycocalyx.
- The apical cap comprises a plate and electron-dense material binding to central and peripheral microtubules.
- Dense filaments connect the cap to the ciliary crown, which has 3-7 periodic bristles (mean length 31 nm).
Conclusions:
- The apical structures of human respiratory cilia are complex and highly organized.
- These structures are potentially involved in microtubule dynamics and ciliary functions like movement and transport.