Glycocalix-Antennulae Microvillares

A dense layer of carbohydrate chains covers the outer plasma membrane. They are part of the glycolipids and glycoproteins of the cell membrane. The layer of oligosaccharides is called glycocalix. The patterns of oligosaccharide distribution show much variation and are characteristic of a particular cell type. The glycocalix determines cell specificity and serves as a cell-specific antigen. The protein-carbohydrate complexes extend outward as tufts of filament-like structures and are called antennulae microvillares . Cross-section through several microvilli around a jejunal absorptive cell with clearly developed antennules. The 7-nm thick actin filaments can be recognized in the centers of the cross-sectioned microvilli.

Electron microscopy; magnification: × 95 000

References

Kuehnel, W.(2003). Color Atlas of Cytology, Histology, and Microscopic Anatomy. 4^th edition . Institute of Anatomy Universitätzu Luebeck Luebeck, Germany . Thieme Stuttgar t · New York .