Cell junction facts for kids
Cell junctions join cells in some biological tissues.
They have long protein chains, The proteins keep connections between neighbouring cells or between a cell and other structures. They also control substance transport outside cell surfaces.
Vertebrates have three main types of cell junction:
- Adherens junctions: holds cells together and provides tissues with structural support. They are common where mechanical stress occurs eg. skin or heart
- desmosomes
- hemidesmosomes
- Gap junctions: allows for chemical communication between neighbouring cells
- Tight junctions: regulate movement of water and liquids between epithelial layers
Related pages
Images for kids
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This image shows a desmosome junction between cells of the epidermal layer of the skin.
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The cartoon of epithelium cells connected by tricellular junctions at the regions where three cells meet.
See also
In Spanish: Unión celular para niños
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Cell junction Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.