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Flagella MeSH Descriptor Data 2026


MeSH Heading
Flagella
Tree Number(s)
A11.284.180.290
Unique ID
D005407
RDF Unique Identifier
http://id.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/D005407
Scope Note
A whiplike motility appendage present on the surface cells. Prokaryote flagella are composed of a protein called FLAGELLIN. Bacteria can have a single flagellum, a tuft at one pole, or multiple flagella covering the entire surface. In eukaryotes, flagella are threadlike protoplasmic extensions used to propel flagellates and sperm. Flagella have the same basic structure as CILIA but are longer in proportion to the cell bearing them and present in much smaller numbers. (From King & Stansfield, A Dictionary of Genetics, 4th ed)
Entry Term(s)
Flagellum
NLM Classification #
QW 51
Public MeSH Note
65
History Note
65(64)
Date Introduced
1965/01/01
Last Updated
2009/07/06
Flagella Preferred
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