Plasticity of cytoplasmic intermediate filament architecture determines cellular functions

Cytoplasmic intermediate filaments endow cells with mechanical stability. They are subject to changes in morphology and composition if needed. This remodeling encompasses entire cells but can also be restricted to specific intracellular regions. Intermediate filaments thereby support spatially and temporally defined cell type-specific functions. This review focuses on recent advances in our understanding of how intermediate filament dynamics affect the underlying regulatory pathways. We will elaborate on the role of intermediate filaments for the formation and maintenance of surface specializations, cell migration, contractility, organelle positioning, nucleus protection, stress responses and axonal conduction velocity. Together, the selected examples highlight the modulatory role of intermediate filament plasticity for multiple cellular functions.