2.1.8 The Cytoskeleton

• What is the extensive network of protein fibres within the cytoplasm called?

  Cytoskeleton
• What are the two main types of protein fibres in the cytoskeleton?

  Microfilaments and microtubules
• What are microfilaments primarily made of?

  Protein actin
• How do microfilaments contribute to cell movement?

  They move against each other
• What are microtubules primarily made of?

  Protein tubulin
• How do organelles move along microtubules?

  Using ATP to drive movement
• What is the third type of fibre found in the cytoskeleton?

  Intermediate filaments
• What are the functions of the cytoskeleton?

  • Provides mechanical strength and support
  • Aids intracellular movement
  • Enables cellular movement via cilia and flagella
• How does the cytoskeleton provide mechanical strength to cells?

  By forming scaffolding to maintain cell shape
• What role does the cytoskeleton play in intracellular movement?

  It forms tracks for organelle transport
• What is an example of intracellular movement facilitated by the cytoskeleton?

  Movement of vesicles and chromosomes
• How does the cytoskeleton enable cell movement?

  Through cilia and flagella
• What structures contain microtubules that enable cell movement?

  Cilia and flagella
• What is the significance of the cytoskeleton in cells?

  • Provides mechanical strength
  • Aids transport within cells
  • Enables cell movement
• What should students focus on regarding the cytoskeleton for the exam?

  Two main types of protein fibres
• Why are intermediate filaments included in the study material?

  To provide extra detail on composition