Meaning & use
cytoskeleton
Last updated
Meaning
nouncountabletechnicalbiology
A network of protein fibers inside a cell that provides shape, support, and movement.
Grammar: Usually used with 'the' (the cytoskeleton); plural 'cytoskeletons' is rare but possible when referring to different cells.
Patterns
- the cytoskeleton of a cell
- cytoskeleton rearrangement
The cytoskeleton helps the cell keep its shape and move.
During cell division, the cytoskeleton reorganizes to form the spindle.
Mutations in cytoskeleton proteins can lead to diseases.
Word forms
| plural | cytoskeletons |
|---|
Common combinations
- cytoskeleton rearrangement
- Cytoskeleton rearrangement is essential for cell migration.
- cytoskeleton proteins
- Cytoskeleton proteins form a dynamic network.
- the cytoskeleton of the cell
- The cytoskeleton of the cell is made of microfilaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments.
Synonyms and how they differ
- cell skeleton
- A less formal term, not typically used in scientific writing.
Word family
- cytoskeletal adjective
- Relating to the cytoskeleton.
Commonly confused: cytoskeleton or cytosol?
cytoskeleton vs cytosol
The cytosol is the liquid part of the cytoplasm; the cytoskeleton is the protein framework within it.
Practice
What is the main function of the cytoskeleton?
Choose one answer.
The cytoskeleton is a network of protein fibers that gives the cell shape, support, and the ability to move. Genetic information is stored in the nucleus, energy is produced by mitochondria, and the cell membrane controls entry and exit.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “cytoskeleton”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.