The Cytoskeleton

Question 1

Where is the cytoskeleton present

Answer 1

The cytoskeleton is present throughout the cytoplasm of all eukaryotic cells.

Question 2

What is the cytoskeleton

Answer 2

It is a network of fibres necessary for the shape and stability of a cell. Organelles are held in place by the cytoskeleton and it controls cell movement and the movement of organelles within a cell.

Question 3

What are microfilaments (first component)

Answer 3

They are contractile fibres formed from the protein actin. These are responsible for cell movement and also cell contraction during cytokinesis, the process in which the cytoplasm of a single eukaryotic cell is divided to form two daughter cells.

Question 4

What are microtubules (second component)

Answer 4

globular tubulin proteins polymerise to form tubes that are used to form a scaffold-like structure that determines the shape of a cell. They also act as tracks for the movement of organelles, including vesicles, around the cell. Spindle fibres, which have a role in the physical segregation of chromosomes in cell division, are composed of microtubules.

Question 5

What are intermediate fibres

Answer 5

These fibres give mechanical strength to cells and help maintain their integrity.