| dc.description.abstract |
A cell contains several different kinds of organelles that perform various functions to keep
the cell working. Besides the organelles, a cell requires systems for transport or movement
within the cell and for maintenance of its size and shape. These later set of functions are
carried out by the cytoskeletal system, which consists of 3 main elements: microfilaments
(Actin and Myosin), intermediate filaments (Keratin) and microtubules (Tubulin). The
microfilaments play an important role in cytokinesis, cytoplasmic streaming, cell motility
and muscle contractions. Intermediary elements provide shape and support to cell elements
to resist any stress and strain. Microtubules work in increasing surface area as cilia and
assist in intra-cellular transport and chromatid separations in cells. The morphology and
activity of cytoskeletal elements also affect cell’s health. For example, these have been
found to be affected in early onset and progression of neurodegenerative disorders and in
metastasizing cancers (Parisiadou and Huaibin, 2010; Huynh, et al., 2000; Izdebska, et
al., 2018). Using different methods, it is easy to visualize these structures in Drosophila
melanogaster. The protocol described here utilizes fluorescence labelling of Filamentousactin
(F-Actin) as described earlier |
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