microtubule

noun

: any of the minute tubules in eukaryotic cytoplasm that are composed of the protein tubulin and form an important component of the cytoskeleton, mitotic spindle, cilia, and flagella

Examples of microtubule in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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These synapses are supported by 'rail tracks' that enable the flow of essential nutrients and information, and they're called microtubules. New Atlas, 15 Feb. 2025 Found exclusively in neurons, tau proteins bind to the internal skeleton-like structure of cells, known as microtubules. William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of microtubule was in 1961

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Cite this Entry

“Microtubule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/microtubule. Accessed 20 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

: any of the minute tubules in eukaryotic cytoplasm that are composed of the protein tubulin and form an important component of the cytoskeleton, mitotic spindle, cilia, and flagella

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