Essential Cell Biology, 4th Edition

Published by Garland Science
ISBN 10: 0815344546
ISBN 13: 978-0-81534-454-4

Chapter 20 - Cell Communities: Tissues, Stem Cells, and Cancer - Questions - Page 726: Question 20-11

Answer

If plant cells contained intermediate filaments their cell walls would not have substantial tensile strength.

Work Step by Step

An intermediate filament structure would not provide osmotic support for the cells, as osmotic properties often fluctuate with the environment. If the plant cells had intermediate filaments the cell walls would be liable to burst from the increase in osmotic pressure coming from inside the cell.
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