Question

Typically, about how large are the following (in nm):

1. Microtubules
2. Intermediate Filaments
3. Microfilaments (Actin Filaments)?

Answer 1

Microtubules are about 23 nm in diameter and provide cell shape and movement, intermediate filaments have a diameter of 8 to 10 nm and provide structural support, and microfilaments, or actin filaments, are about 6 nm in diameter and are involved in cell movement and muscle cell contraction.

Step-by-step explanation:

Microtubules are the thickest cytoskeletal fibers and are typically about 23 nm in diameter. They are made of polymers of alpha and beta-tubulin and are involved in maintaining cell shape, holding organelles in place, cell movement, and forming the mitotic spindle during cell division.

Intermediate filaments have a diameter of 8 to 10 nm and are made of fibrous proteins such as keratin, vimentin, and lamin. The specific composition of intermediate filaments can vary between cell types. They provide structural support to cells and hold organelles in place.

Microfilaments or actin filaments are the thinnest cytoskeletal fibers, typically about 6 nm in diameter. They are composed of two intertwined strands of actin proteins and are involved in cell movement, maintaining cell shape, and muscle cell contraction.