Microtubules
Microtubules are a component of the cytoskeleton in cells. They are made up of a globular protein called tubuulin and are roughly 25 nm in diameter.
Microtubules have multiple functions within a cell. The rigidity of microtubules allows them to maintain the cell's shape. They also control movement of the cell as well as movement of intracellular organelles.[1] During mitosis, microtubules form the mitotic spindle required to separate the chromosomes.
References:
- ↑ Cooper. C. (2000) The Cell- A molecular approach, 2nd Edition, Sunderland: Sinauer Associates. Chapter 11.