Question

Scenario: You are a research scientist and are working with eukaryotic cells obtained from a newly discovered organism, Oviductus oblatus. You want to determine if this organism’s cells are similar in structure an organization to other eukaryotic cells. You collect the cells and examine them using a light microscope and a cell stain in an attempt to see the internal cellular structures. Lo and behold you are happy because you are able to see particular structures using this method. You find the following features: Organism’s cell are able to move Internal structures appears to be made of protein fibers Internal structures protein fibers measured 7.0 nanometers diameter Internal structures protein fiber appears to be two strands intertwined with each others Based on this information you come to the conclusion that you have been able to identify in these cells the structure of ____. You conclude the cells of Oviductus oblatus are indeed (name the main type of cell it appears to be) ______ cells. Discussion: Post your answers for the above scenario and include evidence that supports your choice

Answer 1

Answer:

• Based on this information you come to the conclusion that you have been able to identify in these cells the structure of microfilaments or actin filaments.
• Oviductus oblatus are indeed eukaryotic cells

Explanation:

In eukaryotic cells, the cytoskeleton is composed of three well defined filamentous structures: microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments. Each of these filamentous structures is a polymer of proteinic subunits united by weak, not covalent connections.

The microfilaments are the thinnest of the three structures. They have a diameter of 7 nanometers and are composed of many proteinic monomers united. This monomeric protein is called actin. Many monomers get combined to form a structure that assembles a double helix.

Due to the fact that these microfilaments are made of actin monomers, they are also known as actin filaments.

Actin filaments have directionality which means that their extremes have different structures.

In eukaryotic cells, genes that codify for actin microfilaments are highly conserved in all organisms, which is why they are often used as molecular markers for different studies.