Ectoplasm (cell biology)

For other uses, see Ectoplasm.

Ectoplasm (also exoplasm) is the non-granulated outer part of a cell's cytoplasm, while endoplasm is its often granulated inner layer. It is clear, and protects as well as transports things within the cell.^[1] Moreover, large numbers of actin filaments frequently occur in the ectoplasm, which form an elastic support for the cell membrane.^[2] It contains actin and myosin microfilaments. Amoebae form an outer zone of cytoplasm, known as ectoplasm, where actin and myosin association help move it forward.^[3]

The term comes from the Ancient Greek words ἐκτός ektos, "outside" and πλάσμα plasma, "anything formed."

See also

• Cytoplasm
• Endoplasm