Brief Summary
The cytoplasm, consisting of organelles, the cytoskeleton, and cytosol, is crucial for protein synthesis, folding, and cellular transport. Protein misfolding can lead to diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The cytoskeleton, composed of microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments, provides structural support, facilitates cell movement, and plays a key role in cell division.
- Cytoplasm contains organelles, cytoskeleton, and cytosol.
- Protein misfolding in the cytoplasm can cause neurodegenerative disorders.
- The cytoskeleton consists of microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments.
Cytoplasm Composition and Protein Folding
The cytoplasm comprises organelles and the cytoskeleton, which is a protein scaffold, all suspended in the cytosol, an aqueous solution filled with ions, salts, and organic molecules. The cytoplasm is essential for protein synthesis and folding, with the cytosol's aqueous environment promoting proper folding by positioning hydrophobic amino acids in the protein core and hydrophilic amino acids facing the cytosol. Cellular stresses can cause protein misfolding, leading to the formation of insoluble protein aggregates, which are associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Cytoskeleton Composition and Function
The eukaryotic cytoskeleton includes microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments. Microtubules, made of tubulin, are dynamic structures that provide structural stability and act as transport tracks for proteins and organelles. They are also critical in cell division, guiding chromosomes. Microfilaments, or actin filaments, are made of actin and enable cell motility and muscle contraction. Intermediate filaments, less dynamic but provide structural support, vary in protein composition depending on the cell type, such as keratin in hair and nails and desmins in muscle cells.
