Chap 3 - Cell to Cell Adhesion

Cells form tissues and organs by

holding hands

What are the 3 categories of membrane junctinos

• tight junction

• desmosome

• gap junction

Characteristics of tight junction

• prevents water from passing in between cells

• each membrane has its own tight junction protein

• allows for the regulation of movement of water

Characteristics of Desmosomes

• connecting two cells when they experience a lot of mechanical streess

• helps cells go through the stress

• anchoring junction scattered along the side of cells

What are the 3 parts of the desmosomes (structure)

• intermediate filament

• plaque

• intergral proteins

Characteristics of gap junctions

• nexus that allows chemical substance to pass between cells

• forms a pore that lets adjacent cells communicate

• made up of small proteins called conexon

• not sturdy

membrane junctions allow adjacent cells to

• hold onto each other forming sheets (desmosome)

• make water tight barriers (tight)

• communicate (gap)