Cell cortex

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A cell cortex is made of actin microfilaments. It is attached to the inner face of the plasma membrane in cells where microfilaments form mesh-like structure much like a fishnet except that it can be broken and reformed. This breakage and reformation is referred to as "dynamic instability."

The cell cortex functions as a mechanical support of the plasma membrane. In animal cells, it is an actin-rich layer responsible for cell-surface movements.