The cytoskeleton Flashcards
What is the cytoskeleton?
A network of protein threads arranged as microfilaments, microtubules and intermediate filaments
What are microtubules?
They are 25nm in diameter and are tiny protein cylinders. They are dynamic and are constantly being built and degraded so they can respond to changes in the cell.They also are against each other so if one bends, so do the others to move the cilia but it requires ATP
What is the function of microtubules?
They move chromosomes when they separate during cell division by contraction i. the spindle and they move vesicles around the cell.
What are microfilmaments?
They are found under the plasma membrane and are 8nm in diameter
What is the function of microfilaments?
They connect to plasma membrane proteins and can move the plasma membrane allowing the whole cell’s shape to change by supporting the plasma membrane
What are intermediate filaments?
They are 10nm in diameter and they strengthen the cell
What is the function of the intermediate filaments?
They suspend the organelles within the cell by creating a stable scaffold allowing for mechanical stability and the cell can maintain its shape.
How does the cytoskeleton allow the cell to move?
The movement of cilia and flagella is caused by the protein filaments so in single cells with flagellum, the cytoskeleton propels the whole cell.
