Microfilaments-Actin Filament Cytoskeleton

Microfilaments consist of G-actin (actin filaments) and have a diameter of 5–7 nm. They occur as single filaments or as bundles—for example, under-neath the cell membrane, in cell processes and in microvilli. This figure shows the system of actin filaments in endothelial cells from the human umbilical vein, using fluorescence-labeled antibodies against actin. Thick , 100–200 nm wide bundles of actin filaments are characteristic of endothelial cells in culture (shown here) and in situ. These filaments, name d stress fibers, improve the adhesion of endothelial cells and protect them from the shearing forces of the bloodstream.

Fluorescence microscopy; magnification: × 690

References

Kuehnel, W.(2003). Color Atlas of Cytology, Histology, and Microscopic Anatomy. 4^th edition . Institute of Anatomy Universitätzu Luebeck Luebeck, Germany . Thieme Stuttgar t · New York .