Tag

Cilia

All articles tagged with #cilia

science-and-technology2 years ago•3 min saved

"The Crucial Role of Mussel Tissue and Byssus in Rapid Release"

Researchers at McGill University and Charité-Universitätsmedizin have discovered the dynamic bio-interface between mussel tissue and the bundle of filaments that mussels use to anchor themselves to rocks. By studying the interface, they found that the ends of the threads interlock with layers of living tissue covered in motile cilia, which create a high degree of surface contact and allow for the meshing of two materials. The cilia's oscillations strengthen the grip between the materials and enable rapid release when needed. The movement of the cilia is driven by neurotransmitters, suggesting they are controlled by serotonin and dopamine.

via Phys.org|

#adhesion #bio-interface #byssus

science-and-technology2 years ago•3 min saved

Unveiling the Intricate Wireless Maps of Brain-Cell 'Antennae' and Worm's Nervous System

Scientists have created a detailed 3D map of the primary cilia, tiny hairlike structures found on the surface of brain cells, across the human cortex. These cilia act as antennae, sensing signals from the environment and passing them to the cell's nucleus. The map, which details 56,000 cells, could guide research into ciliopathies, diseases caused by disruptions in cilia function. The study revealed that cilia differ in size and shape depending on the cell type and cortical layer, and they are embedded in the brain's connectome. Further research will explore how primary cilia influence neural circuits and their potential use in treating neurological disorders.

via Livescience.com|

#brain-cells #cilia #connectome

science2 years ago•6 min saved

The Genetic Mystery of Mind-Controlling Parasitic Worms

Hairworms, parasitic worms known for their ability to manipulate the behavior of their hosts, have been found to be missing approximately 30% of the genes responsible for the development of cilia, hair-like structures found in the cells of most animal species. This discovery, made through genetic research, raises questions about the impact of the absence of cilia on hairworms and their parasitic behavior. It also suggests that the loss of these genes likely occurred in the common ancestor of both freshwater and marine hairworm species. Further research is needed to understand the evolutionary patterns and implications of this genetic anomaly.

via SciTechDaily|

#cilia #evolution #genes

biology2 years ago•6 min saved

Unique Parasitic Worms Defy Genetic Norms, Baffle Researchers

Hairworms, parasitic worms known for their ability to manipulate the behavior of their hosts, have been found to be missing about 30% of the genes responsible for the development of cilia, hair-like structures found in almost all other animals. The missing genes were found in both freshwater and marine hairworm species, indicating that this evolutionary change occurred in their common ancestor. The discovery raises questions about the impact of the lack of cilia on hairworms and whether it is related to their parasitic behavior. The study could also help scientists understand common threads in the behavior of organisms capable of "mind control."

via Phys.org|

#biology #cilia #genes