[Campbell Biology P.12] Microtubules are described as hollow rods made of tubulin protein, ... | Practice Question

Microtubules are described as hollow rods made of tubulin protein, easily assembled and disassembled. Based on general biological knowledge prompted by this description, which of the following are primary functions of microtubules in eukaryotic cells? Select all that apply

  • A: Maintaining cell shape and polarity by resisting compression.
  • B: Serving as tracks for the movement of organelles and vesicles within the cell.
  • C: Forming the core structures of cilia and flagella for cell motility.
  • D: Involved in the separation and movement of chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis.
  • E: Forming the contractile ring that pinches an animal cell in two during cytokinesis.
  • F: Anchoring cells to the extracellular matrix through focal adhesions.

Explanation

Microtubules are crucial components of the cytoskeleton with various roles. They help maintain cell shape and polarity by resisting compression A . They serve as tracks for motor proteins like kinesin and dynein to transport organelles and vesicles B . They are the fundamental structural components of cilia and flagella, enabling cell motility C . During cell division, they form the spindle fibers that are essential for the accurate separation and movement of chromosomes D . The contractile ring E is formed by actin and myosin, and focal adhesions F primarily involve actin filaments.