Cell Junctions & Extracellular Matrix

Practice vocabulary flashcards covering the extracellular matrix (ECM) and various types of intercellular junctions, including their components and functions.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

A network outside animal cells made up of proteins and carbohydrates that provides structural support, anchors cells, and allows signaling.

Collagen

A key protein component of the ECM that provides strength to tissues.

Fibronectin

A key protein component of the ECM that helps in cell adhesion.

Proteoglycans

Components of the ECM that retain water for cushioning.

Integrins

Receptors on cells that bind to the ECM to enable cellular signaling.

Intercellular Junctions

Structures that connect cells, enabling them to work as a unit and ensuring stability, communication, and transport.

Tight Junctions

Intercellular junctions that seal neighboring cells tightly together to form a watertight barrier, preventing leakage and maintaining cell polarity.

Cell Polarity

The distinction between the 'top' and 'bottom' of a cell, which tight junctions help maintain.

Gap Junctions

Intercellular junctions that are protein channels, made of connexins, forming direct tunnels between cells for fast communication and transport of ions, nutrients, and signals.

Connexins

Proteins that make up the channels of gap junctions.

Desmosomes (Spot Junctions)

Intercellular junctions that act like rivets or buttons, strongly anchoring cells at certain points to give tissues strength and allow them to resist stretching.