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Microtubules are polar, polymeric, cylindrical structures formed in the cytoskeleton from tubulin dimers. They provide structural support for the cell, and play a crucial role in intracellular transport of organelles, mitosis and other cellular processes. Microtubule inhibitors (MTIs, tubulin-inhibiting agents) can bind to tubulin and inhibit microtubule formation, interfere with self-assembly, polymerization or disassembly of microtubules, affect stability, prevent polymerization or inhibit depolymerization. Because their action is metaphase specific and crucial for spindle assembly and function, microtubule inhibitors are prime targets as anti-tumor or anti-malarial agents. Interference of MTIs with the cell cycle can lead to cell death (apoptosis), and microtubule inhibitors can have anti-angiogenic, anti-proliferative, cytostatic or antitumor activity. Sigma offers several microtubule inhibitors, including catharanthine, demecolcine, vinblastine, and vincristine.
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