Question

Distinguish between Microtubules and Microfilaments.

Answer 1

Both microtubules and microfilaments are the components of cytoskeleton of the cell. Cytoskeleton is a complex network of interlinking protein filaments which is present in the cytoplasm of the cell of mammals including bacteria and archaea. Cytoskeleton of a cell extends from the nucleus of the cell to the cell membrane of the cell and composed of various proteins.

Complete answer:
Difference between the microfilaments and microtubules are as follows-

S.No.	Microfilaments	Microtubules
1	The structure of the microfilaments is double helix.	The structure of the microtubules is helical lattice.
2	Microfilaments are composed of the contractile proteins called as actin.	Microtubules are composed of the subunits of a protein tubulin. These subunits of tubulin protein are alpha and beta.
3	Microfilaments are thinner having diameter 20-25 nm.	Microtubules are 7nm is diameter.
4	They are flexible and strong.	These filaments are stiff.
5	Microfilaments help in cytokinesis (division of a cell into two daughter cells) and in cell motility.	Microtubules are important in forming the spindle apparatus, in transporting molecules within the cell and in formation of cell wall in plants.

Note: The main function of the cytoskeleton of a cell is to give cell shape. The cytoskeleton organizes the cell and keeps the cell’s organelles in place. Cytoskeleton of a cell also helps in the movement or organelles and other substances throughout the cell.