noun
- The core structure of a cilium or flagellum, consisting of nine pairs of microtubules arranged in a circle around a central pair.
Usage: biology; cell biology; technical
Examples
- The axoneme is responsible for the beating motion of cilia in respiratory cells.
- Under an electron microscope, the axoneme displays a characteristic 9+2 microtubule arrangement.
- Sperm cells rely on their axoneme to propel themselves toward the egg.
- Defects in axoneme structure can lead to impaired cell movement and ciliary dysfunction.
- The axoneme extends from the basal body at the base of the cilium.