The Cytoskeleton of a cell is made up of microtubules, actin filaments, and intermediate filaments. These structures give the cell its shape and help organize the cell's parts.
Cytoskeleton:
Maintains cell shape
- positions organelles
- rapidly disassembles and reassembles
- high dynamic while still providing stability
Microtubules:
- resist compression
- composed of tubulin subunits
- come out of and attach to centrosome
Actin Filaments:
- help determine the shape of the cell
- helps it adhere to substrate
Intermediate Filaments:
- anchors nucleus and position it within the cell
- gives cell elastic properties and ability to withstand tension