Nodal cilia

Nodal cilia are tiny hair-like structures located on cells in the early embryo, particularly in a region called the node. They are specialized for creating a leftward flow of fluid, which helps establish the body's left-right asymmetry—determining where organs like the heart and liver develop. These cilia rotate in a coordinated manner, moving fluid efficiently and signaling to the developing embryo how to position internal structures correctly. Their function is crucial for normal development; when they don't work properly, it can lead to conditions such as situs inversus, where organs are mirrored from their usual positions.