The cell cytoskeleton is a complex network of proteins within filaments of differing composition that provides structural support, facilitates cellular movement, and maintains cell shape. It is composed of three major components: microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules. Each component exhibits unique physical properties and functions, contributing to the overall dynamic nature of the cytoskeleton. Microfilaments, also known as actin filaments, are generally the thinnest component of the cytoskeleton, although they can be crosslinked into thicker bundles of filaments. Simple filaments are composed of actin monomers that polymerize into long, flexible filaments. A key feature of microfilaments is their ability to generate contractile forces. To do this actin filaments interact with myosin, a motor protein, to produce contractions that drive cellular movements, such as cell crawling, muscle contraction, and cytokinesis. Additionally, microfilaments participate in the formation of cell protrusions of the membrane, such as lamellipodia, filopodia and neuronal growth cones, which are essential for cell migration and the exploration of the cellular environment. Intermediate filaments are the intermediate-sized component of the cytoskeleton and exhibit a high degree of tensile strength. Unlike microfilaments and microtubules, intermediate filaments lack polarity and are composed of various proteins, such as keratins, vimentin, or in the case neurofilaments, neurofilament heavy, medium, and light polypeptides, depending on the cell type. One of the key features of intermediate filaments is their role in providing structural support to cells and tissues, contributing to the maintenance of cell shape and integrity, especially in mechanically stressed cells, such as epithelial cells and neurons. Intermediate filaments also play a role in anchoring cell-cell junctions, ensuring tissue stability and strength. Microtubules are the largest component of the cytoskeleton and are composed of tubulin protein subunits. They exhibit a hollow cylindrical structure and display a phenomenon known as dynamic instability, constantly undergoing assembly and disassembly. Microtubules serve as linear tracks for intracellular transport, facilitating the movement of vesicles, organelles, and chromosomes within the cell. Key features of microtubules include their role in cell division and the organization of the cell's internal architecture. For example, during mitosis, microtubules form the mitotic spindle, the structure that segregates chromosomes. Additionally, microtubules participate in the organization of other specialized cellular structures, such as cilia and flagella, involved in cell motility and sensory functions. Another key feature of the cell cytoskeleton is its ability to reorganize and remodel in response to cellular needs. The dynamic nature of the cytoskeleton allows cells to quickly adapt to changes in their environment and perform a variety of functions. For example, during cell migration, the cytoskeleton undergoes rapid reorganization modulated by Rho-family small GTPases, with microfilaments and microtubules extending and retracting in a coordinated manner to drive cell movement. Finally, the cytoskeleton responds to signalling pathways and external cues, allowing cells to adjust their shape, polarization, and mechanical properties. This adaptability is crucial for processes such as embryonic development, wound healing, and immune responses. We offer a large product catalogue of research reagents for studying the cytoskeleton, including Vimentin antibodies, Tau antibodies, beta Catenin antibodies, beta Catenin ELISA Kits, and Angiogenin ELISA Kits. Explore our full cytoskeleton product range below and discover more, for less. Alternatively, you can explore our Microfilaments, Intermediate Filaments, and Microtubules product ranges.