Cell junction
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Cell Junction
A Cell Junction (pronunciation: /sɛl ˈdʒʌŋkʃən/) is a type of structure that exists within the cell or between cells, which aids in the interaction and communication between cells.
Etymology
The term "Cell Junction" is derived from the Latin words 'cellula' meaning 'a small room' and 'iunctio' meaning 'joining'.
Types of Cell Junctions
There are three main types of cell junctions:
- Tight Junctions - These junctions create a virtually impermeable barrier between cells, preventing the passage of molecules and ions through the space between cells.
- Adherens Junctions - These junctions are responsible for the adhesion of cells to each other and to the extracellular matrix.
- Gap Junctions - These junctions allow for the direct passage of ions and small molecules between cells.
Related Terms
- Desmosomes - A type of cell junction that binds cells together, not allowing materials to leak between cells.
- Hemidesmosomes - These are similar to desmosomes but attach cells to the extracellular matrix instead of other cells.
- Plasmodesmata - These are channels between the cell walls of plant cells that allow for transport and communication between them.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cell junction
- Wikipedia's article - Cell junction
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