Cell-to-cell Junctions Flashcards
What are the three main types of cell junctions?
Tight junctions, gap junctions, and desmosomes
What is the function of tight junctions?
To prevent leakage of extracellular fluid across a layer of epithelial cells
True or False: Gap junctions allow for direct communication and transfer of small molecules between adjacent cells.
True
Fill in the blank: Desmosomes provide _______ strength to tissues.
Mechanical
What is the primary function of gap junctions in cell-to-cell communication?
Allowing the passage of ions and small molecules between cells
Which type of cell junction is responsible for anchoring intermediate filaments in neighboring cells?
Desmosomes
True or False: Tight junctions are found in tissues where a barrier function is important, such as the lining of the intestine.
True
What is the main function of gap junctions in cardiac muscle cells?
To allow rapid electrical communication between cells
Fill in the blank: Tight junctions seal off the _______ between adjacent cells.
Interstitial space
Which type of cell junction is crucial for maintaining tissue integrity during mechanical stress?
Desmosomes
What is the primary function of adherens junctions?
To provide mechanical strength and help maintain cell shape
True or False: Desmosomes are found in tissues subjected to stretching forces, such as the skin.
True
Which type of cell junction is essential for the proper function of ciliated epithelial cells in the respiratory tract?
Tight junctions
True or False: Adherens junctions are primarily involved in cell-cell adhesion.
True
Which type of cell junction is crucial for the proper function of the blood-brain barrier?
Tight junctions
