Overview
Microtubules are polymeric protein structures that form a backbone for many cellular structures in eukaryotic cells. They are essential for essential cellular processes such as transporting materials and organizing the cell architecture. Microtubule polymerization is the process of assembling microtubules from their monomeric subunits. This process is highly regulated and is necessary in order to maintain correct cellular growth and metabolism. It also has implications in neurite outgrowth and other cellular processes including the establishment of the mitotic spindle. Microtubule polymerization is also important for cell migration and the formation of axon guidance tracks in the central nervous system. Microtubule polymerization plays a key role in many aspects of cell biology and is a crucial component of many cellular processes.