FIMBRIAE Meaning and
Definition
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Fimbriae are small, finger-like projections found on the surface of certain cells or microorganisms. These hair-like structures are typically involved in various functions such as movement, attachment, or sensory perception.
In biology, fimbriae refer to the hair-like projections found on the outer surface of some bacterial cells. These structures help bacteria adhere to surfaces, thereby promoting their colonization and survival. Fimbriae are predominantly composed of protein subunits, such as pilins, and their presence can enhance the ability of bacteria to establish infections. By attaching to host tissues or other surfaces, bacteria can evade the immune system and form biofilms, which are protective communities of bacterial cells that are highly resistant to antibiotics.
In the context of reproductive anatomy, fimbriae are the fringe-like structures located at the end of each fallopian tube in females. These fimbriae help capture released eggs from the ovaries and guide them into the fallopian tubes for fertilization. The fimbriae have a brush-like appearance and their movement creates a sweeping motion that facilitates the transportation of the egg and sperm towards the uterus.
Overall, fimbriae are structures that serve important roles in different biological contexts, including facilitating attachment, enhancing bacterial colonization, promoting reproduction, and aiding in sensory perception.
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In anat., a structure resembling a fringe.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for FIMBRIAE
- dimbriae
- cimbriae
- vimbriae
- gimbriae
- timbriae
- rimbriae
- fumbriae
- fjmbriae
- fkmbriae
- fombriae
- f9mbriae
- f8mbriae
- finbriae
- fikbriae
- fijbriae
- fimvriae
- Fi-briae
- Fiebriae
- Fiibriae
- Fiobriae
Etymology of FIMBRIAE
The word "fimbriae" has its etymology rooted in Latin. The term comes from the Latin word "fimbria", which means "fringe" or "frayed edge". Fimbriae are thread-like structures found in various organisms, such as bacteria, and they resemble fringes due to their slender, hair-like appearance. Thus, the word "fimbriae" is used to refer to these fringe-like appendages found in biological contexts.
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