Cytoskeletal protein
Cytoskeletal Protein
Cytoskeletal protein (pronunciation: /ˌsaɪtoʊˈskɛlɪtl ˈproʊtiːn/) is a type of protein that plays a crucial role in maintaining the structure and shape of a cell.
Etymology
The term "Cytoskeletal protein" is derived from the Greek words "kytos" meaning "cell", "skeletos" meaning "skeleton", and the English word "protein".
Function
Cytoskeletal proteins are integral to the cytoskeleton, a network of protein filaments and tubules in the cytoplasm of many living cells, giving them shape and coherence. They are involved in many key cellular processes, including cell division, cell motility, and intracellular transport.
Types
There are three main types of cytoskeletal proteins: microtubules, intermediate filaments, and microfilaments. Each type has a unique structure and function within the cell.
Microtubules
Microtubules are hollow rods made up of polymerised tubulin that make up part of the cytoskeleton and provide structure and shape to the eukaryotic cells.
Intermediate Filaments
Intermediate filaments are a diverse group of cytoskeletal elements that provide mechanical strength to cells.
Microfilaments
Microfilaments, also called actin filaments, are the thinnest filaments of the cytoskeleton and are found in the cytoplasm of all eukaryotic cells.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cytoskeletal protein
- Wikipedia's article - Cytoskeletal protein
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