cytoskeleton

Question 1

what is the cytoskeleton?

Answer 1

an extensive network of protein fibres within the cytoplasm

Question 2

what creates the cytoskeleton?

Answer 2

microfilaments and microtubules

Question 3

what is a microfilament

Answer 3

a solid strand that are mostly made out of the protein actin.
- they cause cell movement and organelle movement by moving against each other.

Question 4

what is a microtubule?

Answer 4

hollow strands that are mostly made up of tubulin.
- organelles are moved along these fibres using ATP.

Question 5

why is the cytoskeleton important?

Answer 5

they have several functions:
- strengthening and support
-intracellular movement
-cellular movement

Question 6

how does the cytoplasm provide strength and support for a cell?

Answer 6

-provides mechanical strength because it forms a ‘scaffolding’ that helps maintain the shape of the cell
- supports organelles and keeps them in position

Question 7

how does the cytoskeleton provide intracellular movement?

Answer 7

• it forms ‘tracks’ around the cell which organelles can move along.
  eg; vesicles and chromosomes.

Question 8

how does the cytoskeleton provide cellular movement?

Answer 8

cilia and flagella both contain microtubules which are responsible for their movement.