Microfilaments Structure and Function
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Questions and Answers

What is the key difference between intermediate filaments and microtubules/microfilaments?

  • Their dynamic nature (correct)
  • Their function
  • Their location in the cell
  • Their composition

    • What is the primary function of intermediate filaments?

  • To regulate cell growth and division
  • To facilitate cell movement and migration
  • To provide structural support and resist mechanical stress (correct)
  • To provide mechanical stress to the cell

    • How do intermediate filaments respond to mechanical stress?

  • They stretch and then return to their original shape (correct)
  • They dissolve and are replaced
  • They change direction to avoid the stress
  • They break and reform

    • What is a common analogy used to describe the function of intermediate filaments?

    <p>Springs in a mattress</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do microtubules and microfilaments differ from intermediate filaments?

    <p>They are more dynamic and constantly change</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the outcome when intermediate filaments resist mechanical stress?

    <p>The cell maintains its shape</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are microfilaments composed of?

    <p>Actin proteins</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the process called when actin molecules join together to form an actin polymer?

    <p>Actin polymerization</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of microfilaments in a cell?

    <p>Involving in the gross movement of the cell</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to microfilaments during cell division?

    <p>They help the cell to pinch and divide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of microfilaments in an amoeba?

    <p>To help the cell move and capture food</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is unique about intermediate filaments compared to microtubules and microfilaments?

    <p>They are made up of many different types of proteins</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the process called when actin polymers shorten?

    <p>Actin depolymerization</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do microfilaments move in a cell?

    <p>Through actin polymerization and depolymerization</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Microfilaments

    • Found in the cytoplasm and composed of a protein called actin
    • Many actin molecules join together to form an actin polymer, which then twist around each other to form an actin filament
    • Mainly involved in the gross movement of the cell
    • Dynamic, meaning they can lengthen and shorten frequently through actin polymerization and depolymerization
    • Examples of microfilaments in action include:
      • Helping cells pinch and separate during cell division
      • Enabling amoebas to extend pseudopods and capture food

    Intermediate Filaments

    • Made up of many different types of proteins strung together into polymers
    • These polymers twist together to form intermediate filaments
    • Permanent structures, unlike microtubules and microfilaments which are dynamic
    • Provide structural support for the cell and resist mechanical stress
    • Can be compared to the springs inside a mattress, allowing the cell to maintain its shape despite external forces

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    Description

    This quiz covers the composition and function of microfilaments, including their structure, movement, and dynamic nature.

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