Cell Component
microvillus Audio
mi·cro·vil·lus [ mahy-kroh-vil-uhs ]
Subclass of:
Cell Surface Extensions
Definitions related to microvilli:
  • Minute projections of cell membranes which greatly increase the surface area of the cell.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
  • (microvillus) A finger-like projection of the plasma membrane found in epithelial cells that increases the surface area of the apical domain of the epithelium. It is comprised of plasma membrane that is supported by longitudinal actin filaments that are crosslinked by fimbrin and villin.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • (microvillus) Thin cylindrical membrane-covered projections on the surface of an animal cell containing a core bundle of actin filaments. Present in especially large numbers on the absorptive surface of intestinal cells.
    Gene Ontology Dictionary
    Gene Ontology Consortium, 2021
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