Cell-cell connections

• What are the 3 types of cell-cell connections?

  • Tight junctions
  • Desmosomes
  • Gap junctions
• What are desmosomes?


  • Connect intermediate filaments networks of adjacent cells
  • (No transfusion between cells)
  • Some flexibility & movement between the cells
• What are tight junctions?


  • Form a seal between cells that's so strong not even ions can pass

  (impermeable layer)

  • Cells tightly bound to each other
  • Membranes not connected & contents of cells still separate
• What are gap junctions?


  • Allow direct cell-cell communication & selective diffusion of molecules
• Cell-cell connections diagram:
• Where are hemidesmosomes found?

  Basal membrane