Cilia are hair-like structures on the surface of eukaryotic cells that facilitate movement and sensory functions. They play vital roles in cell motility, fluid movement, and signaling.
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Cilia are composed of microtubules arranged in a '9+2' structure.
They can be classified as motile or non-motile (primary cilia) based on their function.
Motile cilia are found in large numbers on the cell surface and help propel fluids across epithelial surfaces.
Non-motile primary cilia typically act as sensory organelles, detecting environmental signals.
Defects in ciliary structure or function can lead to diseases known as ciliopathies.