microtubule

American  

[mahy-kroh-too-byool, -tyoo-] / ˌmaɪ kroʊˈtu bjul, -ˈtju- /

noun

Cell Biology.

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

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microtubule British  

/ 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

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microtubule Scientific  

/ 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.

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Etymology

Origin of microtubule

First recorded in 1960–65; micro- + tubule

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

microtubule

After DNA separation, large microtubule structures called asters expand throughout the cytoplasm.

From Science Daily ● Feb. 28, 2026

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 ● Apr. 17, 2024

The whole process is facilitated by a newly-discovered latch mechanism, revealing that it’s the growing microtubule itself which helps the template find its correct shape.

From Science Daily ● Feb. 1, 2024

The change makes γ-TuRC stow away one of its 14 tubulins, effectively matching the design of the microtubule that needs only 13 rows.

From Science Daily ● Feb. 1, 2024

Zaferani said scientists are still working to understand elements of microtubule growth and chemical properties.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 25, 2024