microsome

[ mahy-kruh-sohm ]

noun

, Cell Biology.

1. a small inclusion, consisting of ribosomes and fragments of the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria, in the cytoplasm of a cell.

microsome

/ ˈmaɪkrəʊˌsəʊm /

noun

1. any of the small particles consisting of ribosomes and fragments of attached endoplasmic reticulum that can be isolated from cells by centrifugal action

Derived Forms

• ˌmicroˈsomal, adjective

Other Words From

• micro·somal micro·somi·al micro·somic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of microsome¹

First recorded in 1880–85; micro- + -some ³

Example Sentences

It has now, however, been clearly demonstrated as an active part of the cell and entirely distinct from the ordinary microsomes.

From Project Gutenberg

It may be no larger than the minute granules or microsomes in the cell, and until recently it entirely escaped the notice of microscopists.

From Project Gutenberg

It is immaterial for our purpose, however, whether the fibres are to be regarded as made up of microsomes or not.

From Project Gutenberg

Shall it be the linin, or the liquids, or the microsomes, or the chromatin threads, or the centrosomes?

From Project Gutenberg

It appears that the fibrous material is always marked by the presence of excessively minute bodies, which have been called by various names, but which we will speak of as microsomes.

From Project Gutenberg