Yes, ciliated cells do have a plasma membrane.
Understanding the Ciliated Cell's Membrane
Ciliated cells are specialized cells characterized by the presence of cilia – hair-like structures that extend from the cell's surface. These cilia are crucial for various functions, including moving fluids and particles along cell surfaces.
The Link Between Cilia and Plasma Membrane
- The provided reference states, "The membrane around the cilium is continuous with the plasma membrane of the cell."
- This means that the membrane enclosing each cilium is not separate; it's a direct extension of the cell's own plasma membrane.
Components of a Cilium
Let's quickly delve into the structure of a cilium to illustrate the continuity of the membrane:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Axoneme | The core structure, composed of nine outer doublets of microtubules surrounding a pair of single microtubules. |
| Plasma Membrane | The membrane that envelops the axoneme and is continuous with the cell's plasma membrane. |
Why This is Important
- Structural Integrity: This continuous membrane ensures the structural integrity of both the cilium and the cell.
- Transport: It facilitates the transport of molecules and signals between the cilium and the cytoplasm.
- Communication: It is crucial for cellular communication and the coordination of ciliary movement.
Practical Example
Imagine a line of dominoes. The plasma membrane of the ciliated cell is like the main line, and the membrane surrounding each cilium is like the domino extending from that line. They are all interconnected and part of the same overall structure.
In summary, ciliated cells not only have a plasma membrane, but this membrane is directly continuous with the membrane surrounding each of their cilia. This continuity is essential for the function of both the cell and its cilia.
