- Integrins are involved in focal adhesions. What is a focal adhesion and what is the role of integrins? What is the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) pathway and why is it important?
- What is the difference between a desmosome and an adherens junction? Between a desmosome and a hemidesmosome?
- True of False: The second messenger systems involving calcium have much to do with the successful function of CAM's. Why?
- For each of the three major classes of cytoskeletal proteins discussed in class
- Draw and label a schematic diagram of the individual units that make up the polymer
- Name two intracellular factors that can make the physical / mechanical properties of the cytoskeletal components vary tremendously from one cell type to another.
- Name three specific cell regulatory systems (that cells use to respond to external stimuli) that govern the factors you named in part b.
- Which protein sorting / processing pathway would the major cytoskeletal proteins follow?
- At what level of protein expression / activity would the properties of the cytoskeleton be controlled? Give one specific example of such control.
- Stepwise, outline the mechanism of pseudopod formation and stabilization and state the major cytodkeletal protein involved in amoeboid cell movement. (hint: there are 11 steps)
- Briefly explain the significance (use drawings if you like) of a "GTP cap" and state the major cytoskeletal protein to which it applies.
- Analysis of a biopsy of a suspicious mole showed two cytoskeletal proteins: lamnin and vimentin. Do you think the mole was cancerous? Why / not? With a schematic cartoon, diagram the molecular difference(s) between lamnin and vimentin.
- Briefly explain why and how lamnins are more dynamic than, say, vimentins or desmins.
- State the role of the following in cell cycle control.
- Cullins
- Cyclin - dependent - kinases (CDK's)
- Caspase
- Cyclins
- Ubiquitin - mediated proteolysis
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