Neighboring cells interact with each other through direct cell-to-cell contact and through the secretion of signaling molecules. These interactions are essential for maintaining tissue architecture and function. Cell junctions like gap junctions facilitate direct communication by allowing the transfer of ions and small molecules between adjacent cells. Additionally, paracrine signaling enables cells to influence each other's behavior over short distances. Dysregulation of these interactions can lead to disorders such as cancer, where malignant cells often escape normal regulatory mechanisms.
