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Question
How does a gap junction facilitate intercellular communication?
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Solution
Definition:
Gap junctions are channels that connect the plasma membrane of adjacent epithelial cells. These gap junctions are made up of 6 membrane proteins called connexins that form connections with adjacent connexins forming a channel.
Role in cell communication:
The gap junction channel connects the cytoplasm of the cells and helps in the transfer of ions and some small molecules. Example- The ions pass through the gap junctions of the heart muscle cells bringing out rapid contraction of the muscle cells.
Diagram:
Gap junctions are channels that connect the plasma membrane of adjacent epithelial cells. These gap junctions are made up of 6 membrane proteins called connexins that form connections with adjacent connexins forming a channel.
Role in cell communication:
The gap junction channel connects the cytoplasm of the cells and helps in the transfer of ions and some small molecules. Example- The ions pass through the gap junctions of the heart muscle cells bringing out rapid contraction of the muscle cells.
Diagram:
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