Several key structures facilitate intercellular communication:
Cell Junctions: These are specialized structures that connect adjacent cells and include tight junctions, adherens junctions, and gap junctions. Extracellular Matrix (ECM): The ECM provides structural support to cells and also serves as a medium through which signaling molecules can diffuse. Receptors: These are proteins on the cell surface or within cells that bind to signaling molecules and initiate a cellular response.
