Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which type of cell junction prevents paracellular movement of solutes?
Which type of cell junction prevents paracellular movement of solutes?
What is the primary function of desmosomes?
What is the primary function of desmosomes?
What consequence does the loss of E-cadherin have?
What consequence does the loss of E-cadherin have?
Which proteins are associated with gap junctions?
Which proteins are associated with gap junctions?
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What role do hemidesmosomes play in cell structure?
What role do hemidesmosomes play in cell structure?
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Study Notes
Cell Junctions
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Tight Junctions (Zonula Occludens): Form a barrier that prevents the paracellular movement of solutes; made up of proteins claudins and occludins.
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Adherens Junctions (Belt Desmosome, Zonula Adherens): Create a "belt" structure that connects the actin cytoskeletons of adjacent cells utilizing cadherins, which are calcium-dependent adhesion proteins. Loss of E-cadherin is associated with increased metastasis in cancers.
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Desmosomes (Spot Desmosome, Macula Adherens): Provide structural support through interactions with intermediate filaments. In pemphigus vulgaris, autoantibodies target desmoglein 3 and sometimes desmoglein 1, disrupting desmosomal function.
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Gap Junctions: Comprised of channel proteins called connexons that enable electrical and chemical communication between neighboring cells, facilitating synchronized cellular activities.
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Hemidesmosomes: Anchor keratin in basal cells to the underlying basement membrane. In bullous pemphigoid, the presence of autoantibodies disrupts this connection, leading to skin blistering.
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Integrins: These membrane proteins play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the basolateral membrane by binding to extracellular matrix components such as collagen, laminin, and fibronectin, ensuring stable cell adhesion.
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Description
Test your knowledge on various types of cell junctions, including tight junctions, adherence junctions, and desmosomes. This quiz will explore their structures, functions, and relevance in cellular adhesion. Perfect for students in cell biology or related fields.
