ECM Connection Types

Question 1

Describe the structure and function of Focal adhesions

Answer 1

Connect the actin in the cytosol to integrins in the ECMvia kindling.

Question 2

Describe the structure and function of Hemidesmomes

Answer 2

connect intermediate filaments to the basal lamina via integrins.

Question 3

Describe the structure and function of Desmosomes.

Answer 3

Resist shearing forces. Cadherins (desmoglin and desmocollin) bind intermediate filaments and adaptor proteins.

Question 4

Describe the structure and function of Adherins junctions.

Answer 4

Link actin filaments between cells. Cadherins bind actin filaments to adaptor proteins via transmembrane protein Caderhin.

Question 5

Describe the structure and function of Gap junctions.

Answer 5

Connect 2 cytosols between cells using Connexon proteins.

Question 6

Describe the structure and function of Tight junctions.

Answer 6

Transmembrane proteins pass 2 bilayers in 2 different cells (ex: epithelium and b loos brain barrier). Nothing passes thru but provides no adhesive strength. Zonula occludens proton binds actin inside cell, binds to occlusion, Claudin, or Jam outside the cell.