Overview
Tight junctions and desmosomes are essential components of cell membranes that help maintain the structure and function of tissues. Tight junctions create a barrier that regulates the movement of substances between cells, while desmosomes provide mechanical strength by anchoring cells together. Both...
Key Terms
Example: Tight junctions and desmosomes are types of cell junctions.
Example: Skin is made up of epithelial tissue.
Example: Tight junctions provide a barrier function in the intestines.
Example: Desmosomes provide mechanical strength to cardiac tissue.
Example: Disruption of cell junctions can facilitate metastasis.
Example: Understanding cell junctions is crucial in tissue engineering.
Related Topics
Cell Membrane Structure
Understanding the components and functions of cell membranes is crucial for grasping how junctions work.
intermediateCancer Biology
Studying how cell junctions are involved in cancer progression can provide insights into treatment strategies.
advancedTissue Repair Mechanisms
Exploring how tissues repair themselves involves understanding the role of cell junctions.
intermediateKey Concepts
Cell adhesionTissue integrityBarrier functionCell communication