ADHERENS JUNCTION Meaning and
Definition
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Adherens junction is a type of cell junction found in epithelial tissues that plays a crucial role in cell adhesion and tissue integrity. It is a protein complex consisting of transmembrane proteins, primarily cadherins, that mediate calcium-dependent cell-to-cell adhesion.
The adherens junction functions to connect adjacent cells, forming a belt-like structure encircling the cells within a tissue. It provides mechanical strength and structural stability to the tissue by anchoring cells together, allowing them to withstand mechanical stress and maintain tissue integrity. Adherens junctions also facilitate the transmission of mechanical forces between cells, which is important for processes like cell shape changes, tissue development, and wound healing.
The main component of adherens junctions is the cadherin family of proteins, which are responsible for the adhesive properties of these junctions. The cadherins form homophilic interactions between adjacent cells, meaning that they bind to cadherins on neighboring cells of the same type. This interaction occurs through their extracellular domains, while the intracellular domains of cadherins interact with cytoplasmic proteins such as β-catenin and α-catenin, which in turn link to the actin cytoskeleton. This linkage to the cytoskeleton helps to stabilize the adherens junctions and contributes to their structural integrity.
Overall, the adherens junction is a crucial component in maintaining the integrity and function of epithelial tissues, allowing for proper tissue organization and development while ensuring mechanical stability.
Common Misspellings for ADHERENS JUNCTION
- zdherens junction
- sdherens junction
- wdherens junction
- qdherens junction
- asherens junction
- axherens junction
- acherens junction
- afherens junction
- arherens junction
- aeherens junction
- adgerens junction
- adberens junction
- adnerens junction
- adjerens junction
- aduerens junction
- adyerens junction
- adhwrens junction
- adhsrens junction
- adhdrens junction
- adhrrens junction
Etymology of ADHERENS JUNCTION
The word "adherens junction" is derived from the Latin word "adhaerens", which means "adhering" or "sticking". The term "junction" comes from the Latin word "junctio", meaning "joining" or "connection". Thus, the etymology of "adherens junction" suggests a connection or joining through adhesion or sticking together.
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