Cervical cancer cells dividing, SEM

Cervical cancer cell, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). The cervix is the lower part of the womb, also called the neck of the womb, and comprises part of the woman's reproductive system. Cervical cancer is more common in younger women. One of the main causes of cervical cancer is a persistent infection of certain types of human papilloma virus (HPV). In this image the cells are undergoing cell division, which is where the parental cell divides into two daughter cells. Cancer cells often divide and multiply uncontrollably which can lead to the formation of tumours. These cells also have very long extending filopodia-like structures. Filopodia contain actin filaments and can have roles in numerous processes including cell-cell interactions, cell migration or as a sensory guide towards a chemoattractant, a chemical agent that induces a cell to migrate towards it. Magnification: x2000 when printed at 10cm wide., by ANNE E. WESTON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY