What type of filament is part of the cytoskeleton and helps maintain cell shape?

Intermediate filaments are an essential component of the cytoskeleton, which provides structural support to cells. They are composed of various proteins, including keratins, vimentin, and neurofilaments, allowing them to serve a variety of functions in different cell types. One of the primary roles of intermediate filaments is to maintain cell shape and integrity, particularly in cells that experience significant mechanical stress, such as muscle and epithelial cells. This network of filaments helps resist deformation and stabilize the positions of organelles within the cell.

Microfilaments, while also part of the cytoskeleton, primarily function in cell motility, division, and muscle contraction rather than maintaining cell shape. Phloem and dermal tissue, on the other hand, are not components of the cytoskeleton; instead, they refer to types of plant tissues responsible for transporting nutrients and providing protection, respectively.