Question

What is the importance of proteins that precisely control when and where cytoskeletal elements polymerize and depolymerize? Make sure to give examples in your explanations.

Answer 1

Ans)Proteins which precisely control when and where cytoskeleton elements polymerize and depolymerize are MT (microtubules),MF (microfilaments), and intermediate filaments(IF). These proteins are very important because they are responsible for determination of cell shape and also permit  different types of cell movement. Microtubules play a important part in forming large structures on the outside of the cells. They can combine in specific bundles to form flagella or and cilia which helps in cell movement and cell division. Microfilaments are  flexible in nature but strong polymers so they can resist crushing by providing support to the cell.IF are the most stable one constituents of the cytoskeleton that aids in structural and tension-bearing roles. An example of this would be the proteins called catastrophins and their function in the regulation of mitotic spindle. The cells within this tightly regulation can precisely control where and when microtubules polymerize(form)  and depolymerize.