Cell Junctions and the Extracellular Matrix

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to cell junctions, extracellular matrix, apoptosis, and related cellular mechanisms.

Cell Junctions

Structures that connect cells together in tissues, facilitating communication, strength, and stability.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

A network of proteins and polysaccharides outside of cells that provides structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.

Epithelial Tissue

A tissue that covers body surfaces and cavities, composed mainly of tightly connected cells.

Connective Tissue

A tissue that provides support, connects, or separates different tissues, primarily composed of ECM.

Tight Junctions

Junctions that seal gaps between epithelial cells, preventing the diffusion of proteins and lipids.

Adherens Junctions

Junctions that connect actin filament bundles of adjacent cells.

Desmosomes

Junctions that link intermediate filaments between adjacent cells to provide mechanical strength.

Gap Junctions

Channels that allow the passage of small water-soluble molecules between adjacent cells.

Integrins

Transmembrane proteins that connect the cytoskeleton to the ECM and mediate cell behavior.

Cadherins

Transmembrane proteins that mediate cell-cell adhesion by homophilic binding.

Elastin

A protein that provides elasticity and resilience to tissues, allowing them to return to their original shape.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that occurs in a controlled manner as part of normal cellular processes.

Necrosis

Unregulated cell death due to injury or disease, leading to inflammation.

Caspases

Intracellular proteases essential for executing the apoptosis process.

Basal Lamina

A specialized ECM layer that provides structural support and serves as a selective filter.

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)

Large, charged polysaccharides that form hydrated gels and can link with proteins to form proteoglycans.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein filaments and tubules that provides structural support and shape to cells.

Bcl2 Family Proteins

Proteins that regulate cell death by promoting or inhibiting apoptosis.

p53

A tumor suppressor protein that can induce apoptosis in response to DNA damage.

Fas Ligand

A protein that binds to Fas death receptors, triggering apoptosis through the extrinsic pathway.

Apaf1

Apoptotic protease-activating factor 1, activates caspase-9 in the intrinsic apoptotic pathway.