What is the function of intermediate filaments in a cell?

Intermediate filaments play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of a cell by providing tensile strength. They are part of the cytoskeleton, a network of protein fibers that helps the cell maintain its shape and resist mechanical stress. Unlike microtubules and microfilaments, which are involved in cell movement and transport processes, intermediate filaments are specifically designed to support cell structure and protect cells from damage due to stretching or twisting. This strength is particularly important in cells that experience significant mechanical stress, such as muscle cells and skin cells. Their ability to anchor organelles and connect cells to one another further supports their function in providing tensile strength.