20250212_Cytoskeleton Lecture 3_v2

Cytoskeleton

A complex network of fibers that provides structural support and shape to cells.

Microtubules

Hollow tubes made of tubulin proteins that are part of the cytoskeleton and play roles in cell shape, transport, and division.

Centrosome

The main microtubule organizing center (MTOC) in animal cells, consisting of a pair of centrioles surrounded by pericentriolar material.

Microtubule Associated Proteins (MAPs)

Proteins that bind to microtubules and regulate their stability and functions, such as Augmin and Kinesin-13.

Augmin

A microtubule nucleating protein that binds to existing microtubules and helps nucleate new microtubules.

Stathmin

A tubulin sequestering protein that binds to tubulin dimers, preventing their addition to microtubules and promoting their disassembly.

Kisan-13

A microtubule severing protein that induces catastrophe and disassembly of microtubules.

XMAP215

A microtubule accessory protein that stabilizes the plus ends of microtubules and promotes rapid growth.

Katanin

A microtubule severing protein that removes tubulin subunits from microtubules and consists of a heterodimer complex.

Kinesin

A family of motor proteins that move along microtubules and transport cellular cargo towards the plus end.

Dynein

Motor proteins that are directed towards the minus end of microtubules and transport cargo inward.

Intermediate Filaments

Filaments that provide mechanical strength and structural support to cells, formed from coiled-coil dimers.

Nuclear lamins

Intermediate filaments that line the inner membrane of the nucleus, providing structural support.

Keratins

Intermediate filaments found in skin and hair, known for their toughness and protective properties.

Neurofilaments

Intermediate filaments specific to neuronal axons, providing structural integrity.

Pleckstrin Homology (PH) domain

A protein domain that binds phosphoinositides in membranes, involved in cargo recognition.