Cytoskeletal crosstalk: A focus on intermediate filaments

The cytoskeleton, comprising actin microfilaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments, is crucial for cell motility and tissue integrity. While prior studies largely focused on individual cytoskeletal networks, recent research underscores the interconnected nature of these systems in fundamental cellular functions like adhesion, migration, and division. Understanding the coordination of these distinct networks in both time and space is essential. This review synthesizes current findings on the intricate interplay between these networks, emphasizing the pivotal role of intermediate filaments. Notably, these filaments engage in extensive crosstalk with microfilaments and microtubules through direct molecular interactions, cytoskeletal linkers, and molecular motors that form molecular bridges, as well as via more complex regulation of intracellular signaling.