Cytoskeleton made of only actin?

Question

I am aware that the cytoskeleton has three structural components: actin, microtubules and intermediate filaments. I was wondering if any cell could possess a cytoskeleton made only of actin. Or made only of microtubules, for that matter. Is it possible for actin to perform the functions that microtubules ordinarily perform in a cell? Or vice versa?

Answer 1

One of the central dogmas of biology is structure determines function. With this in mind, since both actin and microtubules perform different functions based on their structure, it would be difficult for one protein fiber to perform the task of the other. However, that does not mean that it is not possible. Nature is full of undiscovered organisms that defy logic.