Cytoskeleton Flashcards
Definition of cytoskeleton
Network of protein filaments, tubules in cytoplasm, gives shape and coherence
Function of cytoskeleton
Connection with ECM Maintaining cell shape Intercellular transport Cytokinesis Chromosome separation Cell movement
Composition of cytoskeleton
Actin microfilaments
Intermediate filaments
Microtubules
Diameter of actin polymers
7-9nm
Diameter of tissue specific proteins in intermediate filaments
10nm
Diameter of tubulin polyerms
25nm
Formation of actin microfilaments
G actin, globular protein has ATP binding domain on left
G actin polymerizes to form F actin (microfilament), involves ATP hydrolysis via non covalent interactions
Forms 2 tightly wound chains
Is actin a dynamic structure?
Yes, length depends on the rate of loss and gain of G actin
Function of actin
Muscle contraction
Mechanical support (microvilli)
Maintaining cell shape
Cell movement
Actin binding proteins
G actin binding proteins
Cross linking proteins
Severing
Example of G actin binding proteins
Thymosin B4, inhibits polymerisation
Examples of cross linking proteins in actin
Villin, parallel bundles in microvilli
Filamin, joining at angles to create a mesh
Examples of severing proteins in actin
Gelsolin, cuts and binds to +ve end, depolymerizes other side
Contraction in non muscle cells
Interaction between myosin and actin microfilaments + ATP hydrolysis = movement
Movement within cells
Movement of cells
How is actin involved in the movement within cells
Cytokinesis, actin ring forms in cell center, anchors to plasma membrane, myosin contraction constricts cell