Chapter 10 Cytoskeleton System

Content of this chapter

Outline

1. Techniques for studying the cytoskeleton

2. Microfilament, MF

         A. Actin is the protein building block of MF

         B. MF assembly and disassembly

         C. Specific drugs affect polymer dynamics

         D. Actin-binding proteins

         E. Functions of MFs

         F. Smooth muscle cell contraction

3. Microtubule, MT

         A. Structures

         B. MTs assemble from microtubule-organizing centers

         C. Drugs affect the assembly of MTs

         D. Microtuble-associated proteins (MAPs)

         E. Functions of MTs

4. Intermediate filaments, IFs

         A. IFs assemble from fibrous subunits

         B. IF proteins are tissue-specific

         C. Function of IFs: Confer mechanical strength on tissues

5. Cytoskeleton functions