Science Snippet: Learn About the Cytoskeleton

A cow cell showing actin filaments (red) and microtubules (green). Credit: Tina Carvalho, University of Hawaii at Manoa. The cytoskeleton is a collection of fibers that gives shape and support to cells, like the skeleton does for our bodies. It also allows movement within the cell and, in some cases, by the entire cell. Three different types of fibers make up the cytoskeleton: actin filaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules. Powering Muscles Actin filaments contract or lengthen to give cells the flexibility to move and change shape. Along with the protein myosin, they’re responsible for muscle contraction, including voluntary movement and involuntary muscle contractions, such as our heartbeats. Actin filaments are the thinnest and most brittle of the cytoskeletal fibers, but they’re also the most versatile in terms of shape. Strength and Structure Mouse heart cells with actin shown in red. Credit: Jesus Isaac Luna, Kara McCloskey lab, University of California, Merced, via CIRM. Intermediate filaments are made of different proteins depending on their location and function in the body. Some types of these filaments give strength to nails, hair, and the outer layer of skin (not to mention animal claws and scales). Others provide structure in nerve cells, muscle cells, the heart, and other internal organs. Intermediate filaments get their name from being thicker than actin filaments but thinner than microtubules. Directing Movement...
Source: Biomedical Beat Blog - National Institute of General Medical Sciences - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Cells Source Type: blogs