Intermediate Filaments

Lamins

Type of IF found near inner membrane of the nucleus

Nuclear Lamina

A dense network of IFs that underlies the inner nuclear membrane, providing mechanical support to the nucleus and aiding in processes like DNA replication and mitosis. During cell division, the _________ disassembles and reforms.

Type V

Nuclear lamins are what type of IF?

Type IV

Neurofilaments are what type of IF?

Neurofilaments

Intermediate filaments found in neurons, providing structural support to the axons and helping maintain the shape and integrity of nerve cells.

Type I and II

Keratin Filaments are what type of IF?

Keratin filaments

A family of intermediate filaments that form a structural network in epithelial cells. They provide mechanical support to cells and are involved in the formation of hair, nails, and skin.

Type III

What type of IF are Vimentin Filaments?

Vimentin Filaments

A type of intermediate filament predominantly found in connective tissue, muscle cells, and neuroglial cells

polarity

Intermediate filaments lack ______

Intermediate filament tetramer

The basic unit of intermediate filaments is a tetramer formed by two antiparallel dimers which lack polarity

Cell Junctions

Specialized structures where cells are physically connected to each other, helping maintain tissue integrity and communication. They often link intermediate filaments to the plasma membrane.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

A network of proteins/polysaccharides that surrounds and supports cells, providing structural and biochemical support for tissues and influencing cellular behavior. It interacts with intermediate filaments to stabilize tissues.

Plectin

A cytoskeletal linker protein that binds IFs to other cytoskeletal components like microtubules and actin filaments.