Topic: Cytoskeleton
What is the It is a complex network of filaments and tubules that extend
cytoskeleton? throughout the cytoplasm, from the nucleus to the plasma membrane
What is the Function of the cytoskeleton
function of the - Mechanical support, helps keep the shape of the cell
cytoskeleton? - Anchors organelles in position, keeps them in place
- Help move substances around the cell e.g vesicles
- Can help the cell to move by interacting with the flagella which
is made of microtubules
What are the Components of the cytoskeleton
components of - Microfilaments
the cytoskeleton? - Microtubules
- Intermediate fibres
Microfilaments - Contractible fibres made from the protein actin.
Responsible for cell movement and cell contraction during cytokinesis
Microtubules - Made of globular tubulin proteins. Act like scaffolds
and determine the shape of the cell. Help in the movement of cells as
flagella are made out of microtubules. Spindle fibres are also
composed of microtubules.
Intermediate fibres - Gives cells mechanical strength and help them
maintain their integrity
Flagella, Cilia and Centrioles
Centrioles - A component in most eukaryotic cells composed of
microtubules. Two associated centrioles form a centrosome which is
involved in cell division
Flagella is used Flagella - Long hair-like structures that extend from the cell surface
for movement and provide mobility for an entire cell such as a sperm. Cells usually
have one, just a few or not at all
Cilia is used to Cilia - Shorter than flagella and usually appear in large numbers on a
move substances cell surface. When cells with cilia form tissues, the beating helps
move materials across the surface of the tissue. An example of this is
in your nose.
9 + 2 array
Cilia and flagella share a common
structural pattern. Both have 9 pairs of
microtubules arranged in a circle, with
2 microtubules in the centre of the ring.
This arrangement is called a 9+2 array
What is the It is a complex network of filaments and tubules that extend
cytoskeleton? throughout the cytoplasm, from the nucleus to the plasma membrane
What is the Function of the cytoskeleton
function of the - Mechanical support, helps keep the shape of the cell
cytoskeleton? - Anchors organelles in position, keeps them in place
- Help move substances around the cell e.g vesicles
- Can help the cell to move by interacting with the flagella which
is made of microtubules
What are the Components of the cytoskeleton
components of - Microfilaments
the cytoskeleton? - Microtubules
- Intermediate fibres
Microfilaments - Contractible fibres made from the protein actin.
Responsible for cell movement and cell contraction during cytokinesis
Microtubules - Made of globular tubulin proteins. Act like scaffolds
and determine the shape of the cell. Help in the movement of cells as
flagella are made out of microtubules. Spindle fibres are also
composed of microtubules.
Intermediate fibres - Gives cells mechanical strength and help them
maintain their integrity
Flagella, Cilia and Centrioles
Centrioles - A component in most eukaryotic cells composed of
microtubules. Two associated centrioles form a centrosome which is
involved in cell division
Flagella is used Flagella - Long hair-like structures that extend from the cell surface
for movement and provide mobility for an entire cell such as a sperm. Cells usually
have one, just a few or not at all
Cilia is used to Cilia - Shorter than flagella and usually appear in large numbers on a
move substances cell surface. When cells with cilia form tissues, the beating helps
move materials across the surface of the tissue. An example of this is
in your nose.
9 + 2 array
Cilia and flagella share a common
structural pattern. Both have 9 pairs of
microtubules arranged in a circle, with
2 microtubules in the centre of the ring.
This arrangement is called a 9+2 array
