microtubule

[ mahy-kroh-too-byool, -tyoo- ]

noun

, Cell Biology.

1. a hollow cylindrical structure in the cytoplasm of most cells, involved in intracellular shape and transport.

microtubule

/ ˌmaɪkrəʊˈtjuːbjuːl /

noun

1. biology a tubular aggregate of protein subunits that forms structures, such as the mitotic spindle or the cilia of animal cells or of protozoans, in which the protein interacts with other proteins to generate various cellular movements

microtubule

/ mī′krō-to̅o̅′byo̅o̅l /

1. Any of the tube-shaped protein structures that help eukaryotic cells maintain their shape and assist in forming the cell spindle during cell division. Microtubules and actin filaments are the main components of the cell's supporting matrix or cytoskeleton .

Word History and Origins

Origin of microtubule¹

First recorded in 1960–65; micro- + tubule

Example Sentences

When DNA inside the nucleus of a human cell is damaged, a specific network of microtubule filaments forms in the cytoplasm around the nucleus and pushes on the nuclear envelope.

From Science Daily

This is a process called microtubule nucleation, which is like laying the foundation stones of a bridge.

From Science Daily

The researchers plan to follow up by directing chemical cargo along the microtubule branches.

From Science Daily

For decades, researchers have believed that a class of drugs called microtubule poisons treat cancerous tumors by halting mitosis, or the division of cells.

From Science Daily

They suspected the drug might prevent viral replication, which depends on the microtubule network to bring together the pieces of new viruses.

From New York Times