MICROTUBULE Meaning and
Definition
-
Microtubules are cylindrical, hollow structures found in the cytoplasm of cells that play a crucial role in various cellular processes. These tubular structures are composed of subunits known as tubulin proteins, which polymerize together to form long, dynamic filaments.
Typically ranging in diameter between 23 and 25 nanometers, microtubules are considered an important component of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells. They serve as tracks for the transportation of molecules, organelles, and vesicles along their length, allowing for intracellular movement and positioning. Microtubules also participate in numerous processes such as chromosome separation during cell division and maintenance of cell shape.
The growth and shrinkage of microtubules, known as dynamic instability, is a key characteristic that endows these structures with their functional versatility. This property allows microtubules to rapidly assemble, disassemble, and reorganize depending on the cellular requirements. The regulation of microtubule stability is mediated by numerous factors, including microtubule-associated proteins, specific motor proteins, and post-translational modifications.
Microtubules are essential for many cellular mechanisms and are often described as "railroad tracks" that enable the transport of essential molecules and structures to specific locations within the cell. Their dynamic nature and ability to respond to various signals make microtubules a crucial component for cellular functioning and development.
Common Misspellings for MICROTUBULE
- nicrotubule
- kicrotubule
- jicrotubule
- mucrotubule
- mjcrotubule
- mkcrotubule
- mocrotubule
- m9crotubule
- m8crotubule
- mixrotubule
- mivrotubule
- mifrotubule
- midrotubule
- miceotubule
- micdotubule
- micfotubule
- mictotubule
- mic5otubule
- mic4otubule
- microtuble
- microtubel
- microtubale
Etymology of MICROTUBULE
The word "microtubule" is derived from two parts: "micro" and "tubule".
The prefix "micro" comes from the Greek word "mikros", meaning "small" or "tiny". It is commonly used in scientific terms to denote something on a small scale.
The term "tubule" comes from the Latin word "tubulus", meaning "small tube" or "tubelet". "Tubulus" is a diminutive form of "tubus", which means "tube".
When combined, "micro" and "tubule" create the term "microtubule", which refers to small, tube-like structures found in cells. Microtubules are essential components of the cytoskeleton and play a crucial role in various cellular processes, such as cell division and intracellular transport.
Similar spelling words for MICROTUBULE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
