What is the function of microtubules in the cell?

Microtubule play important roles in cell division, intracellular transport, cell movement and in the maintenance of cell structure.

Microtubules(MTs) are polymers of dimeric alpha and beta tubulins. They are one of the cytoskeletal elements. They provide rigidity to the cell thereby maintaining its shape.

MTs are polarized polymers and hence enables the movement of motor , kinesins and dyenins. The motor proteins ferry "goods" across the cell.

MTs are found in the flagella of eukaryotic organisms. The flagella helps the cell propel through a medium.

MTs also play a very important role in the spindle apparatus formation during cell division. The chromosomes are attached at one end of the MT and are pulled apart by its depolymerization.