Microfilaments are primarily composed of the protein actin.
Understanding Microfilaments and Actin
Microfilaments, also known as actin filaments, are crucial components of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells. The cytoskeleton provides structural support, facilitates cell movement, and plays a role in intracellular transport. Actin, the protein that forms microfilaments, is a globular protein that polymerizes to form long, thin filaments.
- Structure: Microfilaments are helical polymers of actin monomers.
- Function: They are involved in cell motility, cell shape maintenance, and muscle contraction.
- Composition: As stated in the provided reference, microfilaments are mainly composed of actin.
Here's a table summarizing the key aspects:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Primary Protein | Actin |
Structure | Helical polymer of actin monomers |
Function | Cell motility, cell shape maintenance, muscle contraction, intracellular transport |
Cellular Location | Cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells |
Therefore, the main protein constituting microfilaments is indeed actin.