Which of the following is a key functional difference between intermediate filaments and the other two cytoskeletal components?
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Correct answer: Intermediate filaments do not require ATP or GTP for assembly
Unlike microtubules (GTP-dependent) and microfilaments (ATP-dependent), intermediate filaments lack structural polarity and do not require nucleotide hydrolysis for polymerization. Their primary role is providing mechanical tensile strength to the cell, not facilitating transport or motility.
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