Cell Structure and Functions

Questions and Answers

They reform lamina

Adherent connection

To provide mechanical support

Microtubule Signup and view all the answers

Lamin formation Signup and view all the answers

Microtubule Signup and view all the answers

It disassembles into A and C free lamin dimers Signup and view all the answers

To anchor actin filaments Signup and view all the answers

Adherent connection Signup and view all the answers

Lamin Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cells are mechanically connected to their surroundings and other cells, with some exceptions.
The cell skeleton is a dynamic structure that plays a crucial role in maintaining cell shape, movement, and internal organization.
It has three main components: microtubules, intermediate filaments, and actin filaments.

Actin filaments are dynamic structures that can form and dissolve with the help of associated proteins.
Nucleation is the initial step in polymerization, which requires ATP binding.
Actin filaments can form bundled structures (actin cables) and mesh-like structures (actin networks) in cells.
Associated proteins like ADF/cofilin and profilin regulate the formation and dissolution of actin filaments.

Intermediate filaments are stable structures that provide mechanical support to cells.
They consist of desmosomes (adhesion molecules) and hemidesmosomes (half-desmosomes).
Intermediate filaments connect cells to their surroundings and to other cells.

Microtubules are rigid, hollow tubes that provide structural support to cells.
They play a crucial role in maintaining cell shape, movement, and internal organization.
Microtubules are dynamic structures that can form and dissolve with the help of associated proteins.