Final answer:
Integral proteins facilitate the attachment of the cytoskeleton to the plasma membrane, through connections such as focal adhesions that link the cell's internal actin filaments to the extracellular matrix.
Step-by-step explanation:
Attachment of Integral Proteins to the Cytoskeleton
Integral proteins play a critical role in the attachment of the cytoskeleton to the plasma membrane. These proteins are embedded within the plasma membrane and can span the entire membrane. Notably, some integral proteins, known as transmembrane proteins, directly participate in cell adhesion, linking the extracellular matrix to the cytoskeleton. An example of such an interaction is through focal adhesions, where integrins (transmembrane adhesion receptors) on the outside bind to extracellular matrix components like collagen and link internally through cytoplasmic proteins such as talin to actin filaments of the cytoskeleton. This connection is reinforced by other proteins like vinculin.
The cytoskeleton provides structural support to the cell, resists tension, and plays a role in cellular movement. The attachment of integral proteins to the cytoskeleton is essential for maintaining the shape of the cell, orchestrating cell motility, and positioning and moving organelles within the cell. Motor proteins such as myosin and dynein use microfilaments and microtubules of the cytoskeleton to enable movement and transport of cellular components.