Overview
Microtubules are essential components of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells, providing structural support and facilitating various cellular processes. They are composed of tubulin proteins that assemble into hollow tubes, allowing them to perform functions such as maintaining cell shape, enabling ...
Key Terms
Example: Tubulin dimers assemble into microtubules.
Example: Microtubules are a key component of the cytoskeleton.
Example: Dynamic instability allows microtubules to adapt to cellular needs.
Example: The mitotic spindle ensures each daughter cell receives the correct number of chromosomes.
Example: Kinesin and dynein are motor proteins that travel along microtubules.
Example: Tubulin polymerization leads to microtubule formation.
Related Topics
Cytoskeleton
The network of fibers that provides structural support to cells, including microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments.
intermediateCell Division
The process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells, involving microtubules for chromosome segregation.
intermediateMotor Proteins
Proteins that move along microtubules and are essential for intracellular transport and cellular movement.
intermediateKey Concepts
Structure of microtubulesFunctions in cellsRole in cell divisionMicrotubule dynamics