The contractile elements of the cytoskeleton are called myofilaments. These are primarily made up of actin and myosin, which are proteins that play a crucial role in muscle contraction and cellular movements.
Actin filaments, also known as microfilaments, function by forming a network that supports the cell’s shape and aids in motility. They are involved in various cellular processes, including division and changes in cell structure.
Myosin, on the other hand, interacts with actin filaments to generate force. In muscle cells, myosin moves along the actin filaments, resulting in contraction. This interaction is essential not only for muscle movement but also for various non-muscle cells that require contractile activity for functions like cell division and movement.
In summary, the contractile elements of the cytoskeleton, primarily made up of actin and myosin, are vital for various cellular processes, including movement, structure maintenance, and muscle contraction.