Cytoplasmic framework

The cytoplasm of all eukaryotic cells contains a cytoskeletal framework that serves a multitude of dynamic functions exemplified by the control of cell shape, the internal positioning and movement of organelles, and the capacity of the cell to move and undergo division. 

Viruses are complex particles, entering the cells by fusion of their envelope to the plasma membrane or by endocytosis followed by the escape of the capsid by membrane fusion or lysis (Sodeik, 2000). The diameter of the viral particle could be several hundred nanometers, implying a very inefficient diffusional movement in the cytoplasm, based on those physicochemical considerations that were discussed above (Kasamatsu and Nakanishi, 1998). Despite these limitations, those viruses that replicate in the nucleus have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to ensure a highly efficient nuclear delivery of their genetic material. Since these mechanisms may provide a conceptual framework to design novel non-viral delivery systems, we shall review some of the key elements that account for the nuclear targeting of certain viruses. 

Eukaryotic cells are found in protists, fungi, plants, and animals. Most eukaryotic cells are larger than prokaryotic cells. They contain many organelles, which are membrane bound areas for specific functions. Their cytoplasm contains a cytoskeleton which provides a protein framework for the cell. The cytoplasm also supports the organelles and contains the ions and molecules necessary for cell function. The cytoplasm is contained by the plasma membrane. The plasma membrane allows molecules to pass in and out of the cell. The membrane can bud inward to engulf outside material in a process called endocytosis. Exocytosis is a secretory mechanism, the reverse of endocytosis. The most significant differentiation between prokaryotes and eukaryotes is that eukaryotes have a nucleus. 

Some natural antibiotics contain a siderophore structure, for instance, 5i-albomycin 35, which is produced by Streptomyces subtropicus. The linear tripeptide portion chelates Fe(III) and, thereby, is able to utilize the iron-transport system of a range of microorganisms. Subsequent to uptake, peptidases localized in the cytoplasmic membrane hydrolytically release the toxic thioribosyl moiety. In principle, this property can be used for selective drug delivery. Preliminary studies indicated that substantial modification of the siderophore framework can be tolerated by microbial iron-transport systems. Surprisingly, simple modifications can be made to cephalosporin molecules, which endow them with the ability to interact with microorganism iron-transport mechanisms. Thus, simple incorporation of a catechol moiety, as in 36, endows this molecule with enhanced activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa when compared... 

The cytoskeleton is the remaining fibrous framework following the treatment of eukaryotic cells with non-ionic detergents under conditions in which most of the cellular proteins are extracted. The cytoskeleton consists of at least three distinct cytoplasmic systems of aggregated protein microfilaments, microtubules and intermediate filaments (Figure 9.2). These structures may be identified by the diameter of their fibres microfilaments 5-7 nm, microtubules about 25 nm and intermediate filaments 8-10 nm. 

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