What are the Different Types of Cell Junctions in Epithelial Tissue?
Cellular junctions play a critical role in maintaining the integrity and function of epithelial tissue:
Tight Junctions: Seal adjacent cells together, preventing the passage of substances between them. Adherens Junctions: Provide strong mechanical attachments between cells via actin filaments. Desmosomes: Anchoring junctions that provide resistance to mechanical stress by linking intermediate filaments of adjacent cells. Gap Junctions: Allow for direct communication between cells through connexons, permitting the passage of ions and small molecules. Hemidesmosomes: Attach epithelial cells to the basement membrane, providing structural stability.
