Part of the cytoskeleton that provides strength. Some intermediate filaments form nails, hair, and the outer layer of skin. Others are found in nerves or other organs.
A component of the cytoskeleton that acts to strengthen the cell.
Intermediate filaments (IFs) are cytoskeletal structures formed by members of a family of related proteins. Intermediate filaments have a diameter between that of actin (microfilaments) and microtubules. Most types of intermediate filaments are located in the cytosol between the nuclear envelope and the cell surface membrane.