When elongated, tube-shaped cells from the lining of the intestine are treated with a certain chemical, the cells sag and become round blobs. The internal structures disrupted by this chemical are probably _____.

A. cell junctions
B. microtubules
C. rough endoplasmic reticulum
D. mitochondria
E. dynein arms

Why isn't it dynein arms?

ljgyuuvyvyvoi

cell junction, i think

cell junction

To determine why "dynein arms" is not the correct answer, let's analyze each option:

A. Cell junctions: Cell junctions are specialized structures that connect cells together, providing integrity and support. While they contribute to cell shape, they are not directly responsible for maintaining the elongated shape of the cells in question.

B. Microtubules: Microtubules are hollow protein structures that provide structural support and participate in various cellular processes, including cell shape maintenance. Since elongated, tube-shaped cells require structural support, microtubules are likely to be involved in maintaining their shape.

C. Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER): Rough endoplasmic reticulum is involved in protein synthesis and is responsible for the production of certain proteins that are essential for various cellular processes. While the RER is crucial for cellular functions, it is not primarily responsible for maintaining cell shape.

D. Mitochondria: Mitochondria are the main energy producers in cells and are essential for various metabolic processes. However, they do not influence cell shape significantly.

E. Dynein Arms: Dynein arms are motor proteins present in cilia and flagella. They play a role in ciliary and flagellar movement, not in maintaining the shape of intestinal cells.

Based on the provided information, the most likely disrupted internal structures by the chemical treatment are microtubules (option B). While it is essential to consider experimental evidence or additional information to confirm the best answer, the elongation and structural maintenance of the cells are typically dependent on intact microtubules.