Intermediate filament

Intermediate filaments are a type of cytoskeletal component found in the cells of vertebrates, and many invertebrates. They are involved in a variety of cellular processes, including cell shape, cell movement, and cell division.

Structure

Intermediate filaments are named for their intermediate size, with a diameter of about 10 nanometers, which is between the size of microtubules and microfilaments. They are composed of a variety of proteins, which are grouped into six types based on their structure and function. These include keratins, vimentins, neurofilaments, lamins, and others.

Function

The primary function of intermediate filaments is to provide mechanical support for the cell. They form a network that helps maintain the shape of the cell, and they also anchor the nucleus and other organelles in place. In addition, they are involved in cell movement and cell division.

Diseases

Mutations in the genes that encode intermediate filament proteins can lead to a variety of diseases. For example, mutations in keratin genes can cause skin diseases such as epidermolysis bullosa simplex, while mutations in lamin genes can cause progeria, a disease that causes premature aging.

See also

• Cytoskeleton
• Microtubule
• Microfilament
• Epidermolysis bullosa simplex
• Progeria

References

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Intermediate_filament

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  Structure of an intermediate filament protein
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  Structure of another intermediate filament protein
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  Diagram of an intermediate filament
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  Epithelial cells showing intermediate filaments
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  Vimentin, a type of intermediate filament protein