Title: Week 2 - Unit 1_3: The Cytoskeleton
Course: Biochemistry

Introduction

The cytoskeleton is a network of protein fibers that can be compared to the “skeleton of the cell” but also its “muscles” too. The cytoskeleton’s function is to allow movement of organelles and vesicles within the cytoplasm, to keep the cell’s shape and to allow cell’s contraction.

The cytoskeleton is a highly dynamic structure that is continuously reorganized as a cell changes shape, divides, and responds to its environment.

There are three types of fibers within the cytoskeleton: microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules.

Expectations

During this section you will find out what is cytoskeleton, what it does, and what is made of. You will review the current concepts of stability and dynamics of the cytoskeleton.

Course outline

Microtubules

Intermediate filaments

Microfilaments

Learning outcomes

At the end of this unit, you should be able to:

- Describe the cytoskeleton
  - Contrast the structure and function of microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules
  - Demonstrate the structure of the cilia and flagella
  - Illustrate the role of microtubules in intracellular transport and cell division