What Role does the Cytoskeleton Play in Cytoplasmic Organization?
The cytoskeleton is fundamental to organizing the cytoplasm:
- Structural Support: Microfilaments, composed of actin, provide mechanical support and determine cell shape. Intermediate filaments maintain cell integrity by bearing tension. - Intracellular Transport: Microtubules act as tracks for the movement of organelles and vesicles via motor proteins like kinesin and dynein. - Cell Division: During mitosis, the cytoskeleton forms the mitotic spindle, essential for chromosome segregation.
