Cell junction

Cell junctions join cells in some biological tissues.

They have long protein chains, The proteins keep connections between neighbouring cells or between a cell and other structures. They also control substance transport outside cell surfaces.[1]

Example of some cell junctions

Vertebrates have three main types of cell junction:[2]

  • Adherens junctions: holds cells together and provides tissues with structural support. They are common where mechanical stress occurs eg. skin or heart
  • Gap junctions: allows for chemical communication between neighbouring cells
  • Tight junctions: regulate movement of water and liquids between epithelial layers

References

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Cell junctions.
  1. ↑ R. Rieger; A. Michaelis & Green M.M. 1976 Glossary of genetics and cytogenetics: classical and molecular. Berlin; New York: Springer-Verlag, p. 62.
  2. ↑ Andrew L Harris & Darren Locke 2009. Connexin:, a guide. New York: Springer. p. 574. ISBN 978-1-934115-46-6.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)