Cytoskeleton and Microtubules Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the cytoskeleton, microtubules, and their roles in cellular functions.

Cytoskeletal podocytopathy

A form of kidney disease caused by misregulation of actin filaments in podocytes.

Myosin

A protein that interacts with actin to facilitate movement and contraction in non-muscle cells.

Microtubules

Cylindrical structures made of tubulin that play roles in intracellular organization, cell division, and mobility of cells.

Dynamic instability

The rapid growing and collapsing of microtubules.

Microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs)

Proteins that regulate microtubule dynamics and stability.

Kinesins

Motor proteins that transport cellular cargo towards the plus end of microtubules.

Dyneins

Motor proteins that transport cellular cargo towards the minus end of microtubules.

Adherens junctions

Cell-cell adhesion structures that connect adjacent epithelial cells and are involved in establishing cell polarity.

GTP-tubulin

A form of tubulin that assembles into microtubules at the growing end.

Paclitaxel (Taxol)

A chemotherapy agent that stabilizes microtubules and prevents their disassembly.