Intermediate filaments are intermediate filaments between microtubules and microfilaments in cells. Their diameter is 10 nanometers. It is made of protein. Cells have four types of intermediate filaments. Keratin, vimentin, lamin and neurofilaments.
Function/importance of intermediate filament
Gives shape to cells. Provides cell strength. Helps keep other cell fibers in place.
Microfilaments are fine contractile fibers located in the cytoplasm of cells that aid in movement. They are also called actin filaments. It was first observed by scientist Paleviz in 1974.
Microfilaments are narrow, long, contractile and twisted biaxial. It is located under the cell membrane like a ribbon. Its diameter is 30-60Å. It is composed of actin protein and myosin protein.
Function/importance of microfilaments
- Microfilaments provide cell shape and mechanical strength.
- Microfilaments cause cellular movement.
- Changes the position of the cell organelle.
- Connects between cell membrane proteins and cytoplasmic proteins.
- It causes cytokinesis (cell division).
- Helps in opposite pole movement of chromosomes.
- It regulates phagocytosis and pinocytosis.