Questions: 32. What are the cytoskeletal elements we discussed and what is the function of each?

32. What are the cytoskeletal elements we discussed and what is the function of each?
Transcript text: 32. What are the cytoskeletal elements we discussed and what is the function of each?
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Solution

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The cytoskeletal elements discussed are microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules. Each of these elements has distinct functions within the cell:

  1. Microfilaments:

    • Structure: Composed of actin proteins.
    • Function: They are involved in cell movement, shape, and division. Microfilaments help in muscle contraction, cell motility (such as in amoeboid movement), and the formation of the cleavage furrow during cytokinesis in cell division.
  2. Intermediate Filaments:

    • Structure: Made up of various proteins, including keratins, vimentin, and lamins.
    • Function: They provide mechanical support and stability to cells. Intermediate filaments help maintain cell shape, anchor organelles in place, and form the nuclear lamina, which supports the nuclear envelope.
  3. Microtubules:

    • Structure: Composed of tubulin proteins arranged in a hollow tube.
    • Function: They are essential for maintaining cell shape, intracellular transport, and cell division. Microtubules form the mitotic spindle during cell division, serve as tracks for the movement of organelles and vesicles within the cell, and are the structural components of cilia and flagella, which are involved in cell motility.

In summary, microfilaments are primarily involved in cell movement and shape, intermediate filaments provide structural support, and microtubules are crucial for cell division, intracellular transport, and motility.

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