Basal body

Definition

A basal body is a cellular structure that forms the base of a flagellum or cilium, anchoring it to the cell membrane. It is composed of microtubules arranged in a specific pattern and plays a critical role in the formation and function of these motile appendages.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Basal bodies are structurally similar to centrioles, with both having a '9+0' arrangement of microtubules.
2. They originate from centrioles during the process of ciliogenesis or flagellogenesis.
3. Basal bodies are crucial for the proper functioning and movement of cilia and flagella.
4. In eukaryotic cells, basal bodies serve as nucleation sites for axoneme assembly.
5. Mutations or defects in basal body proteins can lead to diseases known as ciliopathies.

Review Questions

• What is the primary structural composition of a basal body?
• How do basal bodies contribute to the formation of cilia and flagella?
• What similarities do basal bodies share with centrioles?

Related terms

Centrioles: Cylindrical structures composed of microtubules that play a role in cell division and form the base for basal bodies.

Cilia:

Hair-like projections on the surface of some eukaryotic cells that aid in movement and sensory functions.

Flagella:

Long, whip-like appendages used by cells for locomotion, often anchored by basal bodies.