Cell-Cell Junctions Flashcards
What are cell to cell junctions comprised of?
Cell adhesion molecules CAMs
What are the 3 types of CAMs?
- Cadherins
- Integrins
- Selectins
Where are CAMs? What is the role of CAMs?
Proteins on the surface of most cells that aid in the binding of the cell to the extracellular matrix of other cells
What is another name for gap junctions?
Connexons
What do gap junctions allow?
direct cell-cell communication
What can pass through gap junctions?
water, small hydrophilic molecules and ions
What is a gap junction composed of?
Six monomers of connexin
What is the role of tight junctions?
Prevent solutes from leaking between cells
What cells are connected by tight junctions?
Epithelial cells
What is the role of desmosomes?
Provide strong adhesion between cells –> gives mechanical strength to tissues
How are desmosomes formed?
Junctions that link intracellularly to the intermediate filament cytoskeletons
Where are desmosomes found?
At the interface between two layers of epithelial tissue
What is the function of hemidesmosomes?
Attach epithelial cells to the underlying basement membranes
Where are gap junctions found?
Between cardiac muscle cells and smooth muscle cells
