What are the Mechanisms Behind Cell Shape Changes?
Several mechanisms contribute to cell shape changes, including:
Actin Polymerization: Actin filaments polymerize and depolymerize to push or pull the cell membrane. Microtubule Dynamics: Microtubules grow and shrink to change the cell's internal architecture. Intermediate Filaments: These provide tensile strength and help maintain cell shape during mechanical stress. Cell-Extracellular Matrix Interactions: Cells adhere to the extracellular matrix (ECM) via integrins, which can influence cell shape.
