Question

________________ facilitates the cells by connecting the cytoplasm of adjoining cells, for rapid movement of ions, small molecules and sometimes big molecules.

• A. Tight junction
• B. Gap junction
• C. Adhering junction
• D. Desmosomes

Answer 1

The correct option is B Gap junction

There are mainly three types of cell junctions namely tight junctions, anchoring junctions and gap junctions.

1. Tight junctions prevent leaking of substances across a tissue.

2. Anchoring junctions are of 3 types -
a) Adhering junction which helps in cementing the neighbouring cells.
b) Desmosomes provide rivet-like adhesion between epithelial cells especially in the epidermal and cardiac muscle cells.
c) Hemidesmosomes attach cells to the basement membrane.

3. Gap junctions facilitate cell to cell communication and exchange of substances (rapid movement of ions, small molecules) with adjoining cells which occur in the intercalated discs of cardiac muscles.