Cytoskeleton

Question 1

What is the cytoskeleton?

Answer 1

a network of protein microfilaments and microtubules that run through the cytoplasm

Question 2

What are the microfilaments?

Answer 2

strands of protein actin that act as tracks for things to move along within the cell

Question 3

What are microtubules?

Answer 3

hollow protein tubes (like centrioles)

Question 4

What is the function of the cytoskeleton?

Answer 4

structural support to give cells their shape

holds organelles into position or place

moves components within cell

separates chromosomes during cell division

exocytosis
cytokensis

Question 5

What is the function of the microfilaments?

Answer 5

made of protein actin

thinner than microtubules
gives all shape (tension)

they anchor organelles (keep them in place)
resist tension

Question 6

What is the function of the microtubule?

Answer 6

hollow tubes

thicker than microfilaments

similar to centrioles (9+2 arrangement)

move organelles

resists compression