Figure 1.

Microtubule dynamic equilibrium. MTs are constantly alternating between growth and shrinkage phases, while the −end of the MT is displaying some dynamics the overall stability is governed by quicker processes at the MT +end. Growth of an MT is facilitated by incorporation of two GTP containing tubulin dimers onto the +tip, followed by lattice incorporation, which leads to subsequent GTP hydrolysis. On the top of the growing MT a “GTP-cap” consisting of GTP-dimers stabilizes the structure. Exchange of this capping dimers against GDP tubulin leads to depolymerization. Adapted from “Microtubule (polymerizing and depolymerizing)” by BioRender.com (accessed on 15 December 2022).