Eyelashes, to anatomists, are known as CILIA. CILIA are microscopic, hair-like structures that line the surface of many cells in the body. They are most commonly found in the respiratory system, where they help to move mucus and other particles out of the lungs. In the eye, CILIA help to protect the cornea from dust and other foreign particles. Anatomists study CILIA to better understand how they work and how they can be used to treat various diseases.