Question

How do cells utilize microfilaments and microtubules?

Answer 1

The cells are the structural and functional unit of the living body or life. They are the smallest living unit of the body that is capable of sustaining life and perform all the basic life functions. Moreover, the microtubules and the microfilaments form the cytoskeleton.

Complete answer:
The word cytoskeleton is made up of two words, Cyto meaning cell, and Skeleton meaning framework. The cytoskeleton provides internal and mechanical support to the cells. It is of three types that are microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments.
Microtubules are the elongated, unbranched, fine tubular structures spread in the cytoplasm that form a net-like structure. They are made up of tubulin protein. The calcium ions and guanosine triphosphate play an important role in the formation and breaking of microtubules. They help in intracellular transport. They also provide certain internal mechanical strength to the cell. Microtubules also help in the formation of the centrioles, basal body, cilia, and flagella. Apart from that, they help in astral ray formation.
Microfilaments are the solid, thread-like, unbranched structures that spread in the cytoplasm of the eukaryotic cells. Microfilaments are made up of a highly flexible protein known as the actin and myosin. They provide flexibility to the cell. In amoeba, it causes the formation of Pseudopodia. They also help in the formation of the cell furrow during the cytokinesis in the animal cell.

Note:
The third type of cytoskeleton is the intermediate filaments. The intermediate filaments are present just inside the nuclear membrane. They are made up of acidic proteins. they provide internal mechanical support to the nuclear membrane.