University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Cell skeleton

Wang, Yuexi

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wang_yuexi.jpeg

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/126437

Description

Title
Cell skeleton
Author(s)
Wang, Yuexi
Issue Date
2024
Keyword(s)
Comparative Biosciences
Abstract
This image, reminiscent of a spider web or a city highway map, unveils a specific cellular framework known as F-actin. Captured through a confocal microscope, the image showcases F-actin within a Sertoli cell isolated from a mouse testis. The cellular skeleton, or cytoskeleton, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the structural integrity of cells, thereby ensuring their normal functioning. For instance, F-actin undergoes rapid polymerization and depolymerization at rates reaching 500nm/second, enabling neurons to swiftly respond to environmental stimuli.F-actin serves as a crucial mechanism for cellular collaboration, particularly considering the intricate interplay among the over 36 trillion cells in the human body, collectively sustaining daily activities. In the context of the testis, F-actin in Sertoli cells not only preserves cell shape but also facilitates germ cell maturation, a process essential for continuous spermatozoa production in males. My research focuses on understanding how the F-actin disorganization in Sertoli cells impedes germ cell maturation, offering new insights into aspects of male infertility.In essence, F-actin acts as the fundamental scaffold maintaining cellular structure, and the cytoskeleton proves indispensable for achieving optimal cellular functions.
Type of Resource
  • text
  • image
Language
eng

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