Biology and Medicine

Cytoskeleton’s Integral Role in Cell Shape, Movement and Division

Alexandria Wells^* Department of Cell Biology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States of America
^*Correspondence: Alexandria Wells, Department of Cell Biology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States of America, Email:

Received: 27-Apr-2023, Manuscript No. BLM-23-21383; Editor assigned: 01-May-2023, Pre QC No. BLM-23-21383(PQ); Reviewed: 15-May-2023, QC No. BLM-23-21383; Revised: 22-May-2023, Manuscript No. BLM-23-21383(R); Published: 29-May-2023, DOI: 10.35248/0974-8369.23.15.575

Description

The cytoskeleton is a complex network of protein filaments that provide structural support to cells, facilitate cell movement, and play an important role in cell division. The cytoskeleton is composed of three main types of protein filaments: Microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules. These filaments are organized into dynamic structures that are able to respond to external signals and changes in cellular conditions. One of the key functions of the cytoskeleton is to maintain the shape and integrity of the cell. Microfilaments, which are composed of the protein actin, form a mesh-like network just below the plasma membrane that provides structural support to the cell. This network of microfilaments, often referred to as the actin cortex, helps to maintain the shape of the cell and prevents it from collapsing under the force of osmotic pressure. Additionally, the actin cortex provides a surface for the attachment of cell adhesion molecules, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of tissues.

In addition to providing structural support, it also helps in cell movement. Microfilaments and microtubules are involved in the formation of cell protrusions such as filopodia, lamellipodia, and cilia. These protrusions are responsible for cell movement and allow cells to navigate through their environment. Microfilaments are particularly important in the formation of filopodia and lamellipodia, which are thin, finger-like projections that extend from the surface of the cell. These protrusions are involved in cell adhesion, cell migration, and the formation of cell-cell contacts. Microtubules are involved in the formation of cilia and flagella, which are long, hair-like structures that protrude from the surface of some cells. Cilia and flagella are involved in the movement of cells and are particularly important in the movement of sperm cells and the transport of mucus in the respiratory tract. They also help in the movement of chromosomes during cell division, which we will discuss in more detail later.

Another important function of the cytoskeleton is in cell division. The cytoskeleton is involved in the formation of the spindle apparatus, which is responsible for separating chromosomes during cell division. The spindle apparatus is composed of microtubules that originate from two centrosomes located at opposite ends of the cell. During cell division, the spindle apparatus attaches to chromosomes and pulls them apart, ensuring that each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes.

The organization and regulation of the cytoskeleton is a highly dynamic process that is regulated by a variety of proteins and signaling pathways. For example, the Rho families of GTPase are involved in regulating the formation of actin filaments and are important for cell migration and cell-cell adhesion. Additionally, MAP kinases and other signaling pathways are involved in regulating the formation and stability of microtubules. Defects in the cytoskeleton can lead to a variety of diseases and disorders. For example, mutations in the gene encoding the intermediate filament protein lamina can lead to a group of diseases known as laminopathies. These diseases are characterized by defects in the function of the nucleus and are associated with a variety of symptoms including muscle weakness, heart disease, and premature aging. Similarly, defects in the cytoskeleton can lead to defects in cell migration and tissue formation, which can contribute to the development of cancer.