Which type of filament is specialized for bearing tension in the cytoskeleton?

Intermediate filaments are specialized structures within the cytoskeleton that provide mechanical support and tensile strength to cells. They are composed of various protein subunits that assemble into stable, rope-like structures. This unique design allows intermediate filaments to withstand substantial stretching forces, thereby maintaining cell shape and integrity.

In contrast, microtubules primarily function in providing structural framework for cell shape, as well as serving roles in intracellular transport and cell division. Microfilaments, or actin filaments, are involved in cellular movement and shape changes but are more dynamic and less stable than intermediate filaments. While actin filaments are critical for various cellular functions including muscle contraction, they are not specifically specialized for tension-bearing, which is the hallmark characteristic of intermediate filaments.