Cytoskeleton Flashcards
1
Q
What is the cytoskeleton?
A
- It is an extensive network of protein fibres.
2
Q
Where is the cytoskeleton found?
A
- The cytoplasm.
3
Q
What is the two main types of protein fibres that make up the cytoskeleton?
A
- Microfilaments
- Microtubules
4
Q
What are microfilaments and what are they made out of?
A
- Solid strands
- Made up of the protein ‘actin’
5
Q
What are microtubules and what are they made out of?
A
- Tubular (hollow strands)
- Made up of the protein ‘tublin’
6
Q
What is the function of microfilaments?
A
- Cause some cell movement
- Cause movement of some organelles within cells by moving against each other
7
Q
What is the function of microtubules?
A
- Organelles and other cell contents are moved along these fibres using ATP to drive this movement
8
Q
What are the 3 functions of the cytoskeleton?
A
- Strengthening and Support
- Intracellular Movement
- Cellular Movement
9
Q
How does the cytoskeleton provide ‘strengthening and support’?
A
- Maintains cell shape (provides the cell with MECHANICAL STRENGTH forming a ‘scaffolding’)
- Supports the position of organelles
10
Q
How does the cytoskeleton provide ‘intracellular movement’?
A
- Aids transport within cells via forming tracks along which organelles can move.
e.g. movement of chromosomes to opposite ends of a cell during cell division
11
Q
How does the cytoskeleton provide ‘cellular movement’?
A
- Enables cell movement via the CILIA and FLAGELLA
(Hair-like extensions that protrude from the cell surface and contain microtubules)
