What is the composition of microfilaments?

Microfilaments are a key component of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells, primarily composed of contractile proteins called actin. These proteins can polymerize to form long, thin, flexible strands that have a diameter of about 7 nanometers. The dynamic nature of microfilaments allows them to play critical roles in various cellular processes including maintaining the cell's shape, enabling muscle contraction through the interaction with myosin, and facilitating cell motility.

The composition of microfilaments is specifically designed for their function in contraction and structural support, correlating with the concept of contractile proteins winding together. This intricate organization allows microfilaments to exert force and provide the structural stability required for numerous cellular activities.