When cells enter mitosis, their existing array of cytoplasmic microtubules has to be rapidly broken down and replaced with the mitotic spindle that forms to pull the chromosomes into the daughter cells. The protein katanin is activated during the onset of mitosis, and chops microtubules into shorter pieces. What do you suppose is the fate of the microtubule fragments created by katanin? Explain your answer.
When cells enter mitosis, their existing array of cytoplasmic microtubules has to be rapidly broken down and replaced with the mitotic spindle that forms to pull the chromosomes into the daughter cells. The protein katanin is activated during the onset of mitosis, and chops microtubules into shorter pieces. What do you suppose is the fate of the microtubule fragments created by katanin? Explain your answer.
Answer
The microtubule fragments created by katanin are typically depolymerized into tubulin subunits. These subunits are then recycled to form new microtubules that assemble into the mitotic spindle. This process is crucial for ensuring that the spindle apparatus can effectively segregate chromosomes during mitosis.