Specialized structures that form a seal between adjacent cells, preventing the passage of molecules and ions between the cells.
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Adherens Junctions
Structures involved in cell-cell adhesion and provide mechanical strength to tissues.
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Desmosomes
Strong intercellular junctions that provide mechanical stability and resistance to shearing forces.
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Gap Junctions
Specialized channels that allow direct communication and exchange of small molecules between adjacent cells.
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Hemidesmosomes
Specialized junctions that anchor epithelial cells to the underlying extracellular matrix, providing stability and mechanical support.
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Extracellular Matrix (ECM)
Complex and dynamic network of macromolecules found in the extracellular space of animal tissues, providing structural support and biochemical cues to cells.
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Focal Adhesions
Large, dynamic structures that connect the extracellular matrix to the actin cytoskeleton within cells, transmitting mechanical forces and regulating cell adhesion strength.
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Podosomes
Dynamic, actin-rich structures found in specialized cells like osteoclasts and macrophages, functioning as sites of cell adhesion, extracellular matrix degradation, and cell migration.
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Plant Cell Wall
Complex and rigid structure that surrounds the plasma membrane of plant cells, providing structural support, mechanical strength, and protection.
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Plasmodesmata
Specialized regions in the plant cell wall that are channels connecting adjacent cells, allowing the exchange of molecules and signaling between cells.
Studied by 8 people
