Microtubules

Microtubules are a component of the cytoskeleton in cells. They are made up of a globular protein called tubulin 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 . During mitosis, microtubules form the mitotic spindle required to separate the chromosomes.

Microtubules are cylindrical polymers with a hollow center. Formation of microtubules requires GTP. Microtubules are polar with a plus and minus end, they can assosiate with motor proteins such as kinesin. Taxol stabalises the polymerized form of microtubules by binding to them. It is an important anticancer drug as it affects rapidly dividing cells such as tumour cells.