trichocyst

Term ID

GO:0055039

Synonyms

Definition

A crystalline exocytotic organelle composed of small, acidic proteins existing primarily as disulphide-linked dimers. The trichocyst is an organelle that releases long filamentous proteins that capture predators in net-like structures, to slow them down when the cell is disturbed. The protein is nontoxic and shaped like a long, striated, fibrous shaft. (2)

References

• Wikipedia:Trichocyst

Ontology

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