Cell structure and dynamics

摘要

Originally conceived as a structural framework used by cells to provide cytoplasmic bulk, tensile strength and roadways for subcellular movements, the cytoskeleton is now known to be a highly dynamic array, which interacts with and coordinates a wide range of physiological functions. Work in the area of cytoskeletal biology continues to produce new insights at a dizzying rate. It is no longer possible to consider cytoskeletal polymers and their associated proteins as structures that function independently of the greater cellular milieu. This conceptual shift has resulted in a blurring of distinctions between classical cell biological disciplines and has led students of the cytoskeleton to explore new questions. In keeping with the current state of the field, the editors of Current Opinion in Cell Biology have assigned a new name to this issue; 'Cell structure and dynamics'. The topics selected reflect the broad range of subjects that currently occupy the interest of many cytoskeletal biologists. As always, it was not possible to provide comprehensive coverage of all new developments, but rather areas were chosen to highlight particularly significant new discoveries which have emerged over the past several months.