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Microtubule and tubulin metrics [1]. Microtubules are polymers of tubulin that form part of the cytoskeleton and provide structure and shape to eukaryotic cells. Microtubules can be as long as 50 micrometres, as wide as 23 to 27 nm [2] and have an inner diameter between 11 and 15 nm. [3]
Microtubules are assembled from dimers of α- and β-tubulin. These subunits are slightly acidic, with an isoelectric point between 5.2 and 5.8. [14] Each has a molecular weight of approximately 50 kDa. [15] To form microtubules, the dimers of α- and β-tubulin bind to GTP and assemble onto the (+) ends of microtubules while in the GTP-bound ...
In cell biology, microtubule nucleation is the event that initiates de novo formation of microtubules (MTs). These filaments of the cytoskeleton typically form through polymerization of α- and β-tubulin dimers, the basic building blocks of the microtubule, which initially interact to nucleate a seed from which the filament elongates.
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A characteristic feature of protozoan parasites is an ordered layer of microtubules beneath the cell membrane. [2]: 152 The interaction between microtubules and the plasma membrane provide support, shape, and stability to the cell, as well as act as tracks for transporting materials within the cell.
Genes from the alpha, beta and gamma tubulin families are found in all eukaryotes. The alpha and beta tubulins represent the major components of microtubules, while gamma tubulin plays a critical role in the nucleation of microtubule assembly. There are multiple alpha and beta tubulin genes, which are highly conserved among species.
Microtubule plus-end/positive-end tracking proteins or +TIPs are a type of microtubule associated protein (MAP) which accumulate at the plus ends of microtubules. +TIPs are arranged in diverse groups which are classified based on their structural components; however, all classifications are distinguished by their specific accumulation at the plus end of microtubules and their ability to ...
Tau proteins stabilize microtubules, and thus shift the reaction kinetics in favor of addition of new subunits, accelerating microtubule growth. Tau has the additional function of facilitating bundling of microtubules within the nerve cell. The function of tau has been linked to the neurological condition Alzheimer's disease.