Cell junction
a cellular component that forms a specialized region of connection between two or more cells, or between a cell and the extracellular matrix, or between two membrane-bound components of a cell, such as flagella From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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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]
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
- desmosomes
- hemidesmosomes
- Gap junctions: allows for chemical communication between neighbouring cells
- Tight junctions: regulate movement of water and liquids between epithelial layers
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