Cytoskeleton

Question 1

What is the description and function of microfilaments?

Answer 1

• Made of actin (smallest diameter)
• Can contract to move cells or divide the cell during cytokinesis.
• Used for cell movement and to keep the cell’s shape stable.

Question 2

What is the description and function of intermediate filaments?

Answer 2

• Made of several different proteins.
• Strengthen the cell and stabilise tissues.
• Anchor the nucleus within the cytoplasm.

Question 3

What is the description and function of microtubules?

Answer 3

• Made of tubulin (largest diameter)
• Form the track that motor proteins use to move organelles around the cell.
• Form the spindle fibers for mitosis and meiosis.