Skip to main content
Ch. 3 The Cell
Amerman - Human Anatomy & Physiology 2nd Edition
Amerman2nd EditionHuman Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780136873822Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 3, Problem 11c

Mark the following statements about the cytoskeleton as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
Microtubules are hollow tubes that align organelles and shuttle them to their proper places in the cell.

Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of microtubules in the cytoskeleton. Microtubules are hollow tubes made of tubulin proteins that provide structural support, assist in intracellular transport, and play a role in cell division.
Step 2: Evaluate the statement: 'Microtubules align organelles and shuttle them to their proper places in the cell.' This is partially correct, as microtubules do assist in the transport of organelles and vesicles within the cell, but they do not 'align' organelles in a fixed position.
Step 3: Correct the false part of the statement. A more accurate version would be: 'Microtubules are hollow tubes that assist in the transport of organelles and vesicles within the cell, ensuring proper intracellular organization.'
Step 4: Confirm the corrected statement aligns with the known functions of microtubules, such as their role in intracellular transport via motor proteins like kinesin and dynein.
Step 5: Mark the original statement as false and provide the corrected version as the true statement.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Cytoskeleton Structure

The cytoskeleton is a dynamic network of protein filaments and tubules that provides structural support to the cell. It consists of three main components: microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules, each playing distinct roles in maintaining cell shape, enabling movement, and organizing cellular components.
Recommended video:
06:05
Introduction to the Cytoskeleton

Microtubules

Microtubules are cylindrical structures made of tubulin protein subunits. They are essential for various cellular functions, including maintaining cell shape, facilitating intracellular transport, and forming the mitotic spindle during cell division. Their hollow nature allows them to be flexible yet strong, supporting organelle positioning and movement.
Recommended video:
03:14
Cilia & Flagella

Intracellular Transport

Intracellular transport refers to the mechanisms by which materials are moved within a cell. Microtubules serve as tracks for motor proteins, such as kinesin and dynein, which transport organelles, vesicles, and other cargo to specific locations, ensuring proper cellular function and organization.
Recommended video:
02:37
Active Transport