Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of tight junctions?
Where are desmosomes typically found?
What is the purpose of gap junctions in cardiac muscle cells?
What type of cell junction allows for the flow of water and ions between cells?
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Which of the following is a characteristic of desmosomes?
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What is the main difference between tight junctions and desmosomes?
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In which type of cell are gap junctions often found?
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What do gap junctions resemble structurally?
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What is the main function of tight junctions?
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Where are tight junctions often found?
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What is the purpose of desmosomes?
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What is the main difference between tight junctions and desmosomes?
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What would happen if the bladder did not have tight junctions?
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What is the function of tight junctions in the intestines?
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What do desmosomes attach to?
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What type of molecules can pass through the gap between cells connected by desmosomes?
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Study Notes
Cell Junctions
- Cell junctions connect cells to each other and often occur in epithelial tissue.
- There are three main types of cell junctions: tight junctions, desmosomes, and gap junctions.
Tight Junctions
- Tight junctions are like a glue that connects two cells together, forming a watertight seal.
- They block the passage of water, ions, and other molecules between cells, preventing exchange from both sides.
- Found in areas where water cannot leak, such as the bladder, intestines, and kidney.
Desmosomes
- Desmosomes are connections that hold two cells together, attaching to the cytoskeleton.
- They allow small molecules like water, ions, and other small molecules to flow between cells.
- Found in tissues that experience stress, offering space for stress relief, such as skin and intestines.
- Desmosomes are like spot welds, holding cells together while allowing limited flow.
Gap Junctions
- Gap junctions form a tunnel between two cells, allowing water, ions, and other molecules to flow through.
- Found in cells that spread action potential or use electrical coupling, such as cardiac muscle and neurons.
- Gap junctions enable the spread of action potential, allowing the heart to beat and neurons to function.
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Description
Learn about the three major types of cell junctions: tight junctions, desmosomes, and gap junctions, and their role in connecting cells in epithelial tissue.