page_title: Axoneme
hierarchical_section_title: Axoneme
caption_attribution_description: Transmission electron microscope image, showing an example of green algae (Chlorophyta). Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is a unicellular flagellate used as a model system in molecular genetics work and flagellar motility studies. This image is a thin x-section cut through the isolated axoneme. Chlamydomonas flagella have the "9+2" structure characteristic of all eukaryotic cells. The axoneme has a central unit containing two single microtubules and nine peripheral doublet microtubules (known as the "9+2"). Dynein sidearms project from the A tubule of each doublet. Also visible in this image are the radial spokes and the inner sheath.
context_page_description: An axoneme is the microtubule-based cytoskeletal structure that forms the core of a cilium or flagellum. Cilia and flagella are found on many cells, organisms, and microorganisms, to provide motility.
  The axoneme serves as the "skeleton" of these organelles, both giving support to the structure and, in some cases, the ability to bend. Though distinctions of function and length may be made between cilia and flagella, the internal structure of the axoneme is common to both.
context_section_description: An axoneme is the microtubule-based cytoskeletal structure that forms the core of a cilium or flagellum. Cilia and flagella are found on many cells, organisms, and microorganisms, to provide motility.
  The axoneme serves as the "skeleton" of these organelles, both giving support to the structure and, in some cases, the ability to bend. Though distinctions of function and length may be made between cilia and flagella, the internal structure of the axoneme is common to both.
caption: Micrograph of thin cross-section of Chlamydomonas axoneme
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