Cytoskeleton and Its Functions

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the cytoskeleton, its components, functions, and related processes in cells.

Atherosclerosis

A chronic inflammatory disease of the arteries characterized by the build-up of fat, cholesterol, and immune cells in arterial walls, leading to plaque formation and reduced blood flow.

Cytoskeleton

A highly dynamic network of protein filaments in eukaryotic cells that provides support, shape, and facilitates movement and division.

Microfilaments

Thin and flexible filaments made of actin proteins involved in cell shape, movement, and cell division.

Intermediate filaments

Rope-like fibers that provide mechanical strength to cells, made of fibrous proteins and approximately 10 nm in diameter.

Microtubules

Hollow, rigid cylinders about 25 nm in diameter that are involved in intracellular transport, cell division, and organelle positioning.

Dynamic instability

The rapid switching between polymerization and depolymerization of microtubules, essential for their function.

Kinesins

Motor proteins that transport cellular materials along microtubules towards the plus end.

Dyneins

Motor proteins that transport cellular materials along microtubules towards the minus end.

Cilia

Hair-like structures that move fluid across the cell surface, composed of microtubules.

Flagella

Long, whip-like structures that propel cells, such as sperm, and are also composed of microtubules.

Chemokines

Chemicals secreted by endothelial cells that attract monocytes to the vessel wall during the development of atherosclerosis.

Polymerization

The process of linking monomer units to form a larger polymer, as seen in the formation of microtubules.

Depolymerization

The breakdown of a polymer into its monomer units, a process that affects microtubule and microfilament dynamics.

Actin

A protein that forms microfilaments and is involved in various cellular functions, including contraction and motility.

Centrosome

A cellular structure that organizes microtubules and serves as the main microtubule organizing center during cell division.