noun
- a very thin protein fiber found in cells that helps maintain cell shape and enables cell movement
Usage: biology
Examples
- Microfilaments are composed primarily of the protein actin.
- The cell’s microfilaments contracted to change its shape.
- Muscle contraction depends on the interaction between microfilaments and myosin.
- Scientists observed microfilaments under the electron microscope.
- Microfilaments form part of the cell’s cytoskeleton.
- The amoeba uses microfilaments to extend pseudopodia for movement.