pilus

• Nom désignant une structure en forme de poil, notamment à la surface d'une cellule ou d'un micro-organisme, ou l'un des filaments cylindriques poussant à partir de l'épiderme d'un mammifère.

A noun referring to a hairlike structure, especially on the surface of a cell or microorganism, or any of the cylindrical filaments growing from the epidermis of a mammal.

pluriel irrégulier

1. Hair on mammalsC1formalscientific

   A fine, thread-like structure that grows from the skin of mammals, forming fur or hair.

   Poil (de mammifère)

   • The pilus of a mammal provides insulation and protection.
   • Each pilus grows from a follicle in the skin.
   • The density of pili varies greatly among different species.

   Synonymeshair

2. Bacterial appendageC1formalscientific

   A hair-like appendage found on the surface of many bacteria, used for attachment or genetic exchange.

   Pilus bactérien

   • The bacterium uses its pilus to attach to host cells.
   • Conjugation is facilitated by a specialized pilus.
   • Scientists study the pilus to understand bacterial infections.

   Synonymesfimbria