Neurofilaments usually contain three intermediate filament proteins: NEFL, NEFM, and NEFH which are involved in the maintenance of neuronal caliber. May additionally cooperate with the neuronal intermediate filament proteins to form neuronal filamentous networks (By similarity). Forms homodimers (in vitro). The extra mass and high charge density that distinguish the neurofilament proteins from all other intermediate filament proteins are due to the tailpiece extensions. This region may form a charged scaffolding structure suitable for interaction with other neuronal components or ions. NF-L deficiency causes the disorder quiver. NF-L is the most abundant of the three neurofilament proteins and, as the other nonepithelial intermediate filament proteins, it can form homomeric 10-nm filaments. Belongs to the intermediate filament family.