1. MicrotubUles By: Nathan Piluso Pd. 5

2. Definition • Microtubules are one of the many components that make up the cytoskeleton of a cell. They are hollow tubes made up of protein called tubulin. • Sometimes they are considered the conveyer belts of a cell.

4. Function • One of the main function of the microtubules is to guide organelles and molecules throughout the cell. But this is not their only job. They are also responsible for maintaining a cell’s shape. • Microtubules are important in helping cell division and supporting the cytoplasm. Once a cell divides, the microtubules are put to work in other areas.

5. Model of a Microtubule

6. Explanation of Structure • As seen in the model on the previous slide, a microtubule consists of many forms of the protein tubulin that stack up in a tube shape. These tubulin form subunits within the microtubule and allow it to do its job efficiently.

7. Location • For the most part, microtubules can be found within a cell’s cytoplasm for support, but there are certain stable microtubules that are located in a cell’s cilia and flagella. Cilia and flagella are actually made up of microtubules and help them do their job. Oh, I see…

8. References • http://www.cytochemistry.net/Cell-biology/microtub.htm#tubulin • http://www.biology4kids.com/files/cell_microtubule.html