Microtubule-tubulin complex

The **microtubule-tubulin complex** refers to the dynamic polymer formed by the assembly of α-tubulin and β-tubulin heterodimers into protofilaments, which form the cylindrical structure of microtubules, fundamental elements of the eukaryotic cytoskeleton[1][4][8]. Microtubules are essential for a broad range of cellular processes, including maintenance of cell structure, intracellular transport, cell division, and the segregation of chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis[2][7][8]. Their assembly is catalyzed by nucleating complexes like the γ-tubulin ring complex (γ-TuRC), which acts as a template to facilitate the formation of microtubules with a specific protofilament architecture[1][3][5][7]. Tubulin undergoes extensive post-translational modifications, generating a "tubulin code" that influences microtubule functions and their interactions with microtubule-associated proteins and molecular motors[4][6]. Many anticancer drugs target microtubules by stabilizing or destabilizing these polymers, leading to mitotic arrest and apoptosis of rapidly dividing cells. The microtubule-tubulin complex is thus a major therapeutic target, particularly in oncology and, to a lesser degree, in neurobiology[4][8].

Other names

MicrotubuleTubulin polymerCytoskeletal microtubuleTubulin complex

Inhibition of microtubule depolymerization (stabilization, e.g., paclitaxel); Inhibition of microtubule polymerization (destabilization, e.g., vincristine, colchicine); Disruption of mitotic spindle formation (cell cycle arrest); Interference with intracellular transport.