The cytoskeleton is a dynamic network of protein filaments and tubules that extends throughout the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. It provides structural support, facilitates intracellular transport, enables cellular movement, and plays essential roles in cell division and signaling.
Key Components:
- Microfilaments (Actin Filaments):
- Structure: Thin, flexible fibers composed of actin proteins.
- Functions: Maintain cell shape, enable cell motility, facilitate muscle contraction, and support intracellular transport
- Intermediate Filaments:
- Structure: Stable, rope-like fibers made of various proteins, such as vimentin, keratins, and neurofilaments.
- Functions: Provide mechanical strength, maintain cell integrity, and anchor organelles in place.
- Microtubules:
- Structure: Hollow tubes composed of tubulin dimers.
- Functions: Determine cell shape, facilitate intracellular transport (serving as tracks for motor proteins like kinesin and dynein), and form structures like cilia and flagella for cell movement
