tubulin

noun

tu·​bu·​lin ˈtü-byə-lən How to pronounce tubulin (audio)
ˈtyü-
: a globular protein that polymerizes to form microtubules

Examples of tubulin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The drug binds to the protein tubulin in cells, preventing it from forming into microtubules, which are vital structural components of cells. Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 27 Oct. 2023 Along with another protein called tubulin, tau binds to these microtubules to keep them strong and stabilized. Amber Jorgenson, Discover Magazine, 17 Oct. 2019 Perhaps the strangest thing found in these viruses are genes that encode relatives of a protein called tubulin, which helps a cell organize its internal contents. John Timmer, Ars Technica, 13 Feb. 2020 Cunningham suspects that when the strep antibodies target tubulin in the brain, the result is a gumming up of a cell’s structural machinery and, apparently, neuropsychiatric ills. Pamela Weintraub, Discover Magazine, 29 Mar. 2017 The autoantibodies also attached to tubulin, a protein molecule used to maintain a cell’s physical structure. Pamela Weintraub, Discover Magazine, 29 Mar. 2017

Word History

Etymology

tubule + -in entry 1

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tubulin was in 1968

Dictionary Entries Near tubulin

Cite this Entry

“Tubulin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tubulin. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

tubulin

noun
tu·​bu·​lin ˈt(y)ü-byə-lən How to pronounce tubulin (audio)
: a globular protein that polymerizes to form microtubules
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