Question

Discuss how intermediate filaments are apolar, compare this to microtubules and actin.

Answer 1

Intermediate filaments are apolar because it does not have distinct plus and minus ends. So it does not have any motor function like actin and microtublues. IF has diameter 10nm where as actin filaments (about 7 nm) and microtubules (about 25 nm). Both actin and microtubles has plus and minus end in that plus end is continuous addition of actin molecule where as tubulin molecule is add in plus end for microtublues. In minus end degradation or removal of actin and tubulin molecules this looks like a treadmilling. But IF no such mechanism are present and it leads to function for tissue strength and integrity, sarcomere organization, nuclear structure and organization.