Definition

A tiny structure found in a cell's cytoplasm, made up of parts of the endoplasmic reticulum and often containing ribosomes.

Example

Microsomes play a crucial role in the metabolism of drugs within the liver cells.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a microsome?

Yeah, I think it's related to cell structures, right?

Exactly! I read that it consists of fragmented endoplasmic reticulum.

That's cool! I've always found cell biology fascinating.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Microsome is formed from "micro-" (from Greek "mikros", meaning small) and "soma" (from Greek "soma", meaning body). The word refers to a small body or structure, often used in biological contexts to describe tiny cellular components.

Memory Tip

Think of 'small' ('micro-') and 'body' ('soma') to remember that a microsome is a small body or structure, particularly in a biological sense.

Visually Confused Words