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

"But Tau and alpha synuclein also fulfill essential functions in healthy neurons - they help maintain cell structure and support communication by interacting with tubulin and contributing to microtubule assembly and stabilization."

From Science Daily ● Jun. 21, 2026

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

From Science Daily ● Feb. 28, 2026

Enzymes deposit a chemical mark on a specific part of the microtubule filaments, which causes them to recruit tiny motor proteins and push on the nuclear envelope.

From Science Daily ● Apr. 17, 2024

Initially in an open state, it progressively closes as the microtubule grows.

From Science Daily ● Feb. 1, 2024

Using specialized equipment in micro/nanofabrication and microfluidics, the researchers precisely controlled the growth of the microtubule branches.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 25, 2024