Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Cell Junctions

Anatomy & Physiology

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Cell Junctions

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3:23 minutes

Problem 3

Textbook Question

Membrane junctions that allow nutrients or ions to flow from cell to cell are:
a. Desmosomes
b. Gap junctions
c. Tight junctions
d. All of these

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the function of membrane junctions: Membrane junctions are specialized structures that connect adjacent cells and facilitate communication or adhesion between them. Each type of junction has a specific role in cellular function.

Review the characteristics of desmosomes: Desmosomes are anchoring junctions that hold cells together, providing mechanical strength. They do not allow the flow of nutrients or ions between cells.

Examine the role of tight junctions: Tight junctions create a seal between adjacent cells, preventing the passage of substances through the intercellular space. They are primarily involved in maintaining the integrity of barriers, not in the flow of nutrients or ions.

Analyze the function of gap junctions: Gap junctions are specialized membrane junctions that allow direct communication between cells. They consist of connexons, which form channels enabling the flow of ions, nutrients, and signaling molecules between adjacent cells.

Determine the correct answer based on the descriptions: Since gap junctions are the only type of membrane junction that facilitates the flow of nutrients or ions from cell to cell, the correct answer is b. gap junctions.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Membrane Junctions

Membrane junctions are specialized structures that connect adjacent cells, facilitating communication and transport between them. They play a crucial role in maintaining tissue integrity and function by allowing the passage of ions, nutrients, and signals, which is essential for cellular coordination.

Gap Junctions

Gap junctions are a type of membrane junction that consists of protein channels allowing direct communication between neighboring cells. They enable the transfer of small molecules and ions, facilitating rapid signaling and metabolic cooperation, which is vital in tissues like cardiac and smooth muscle.

Desmosomes and Tight Junctions

Desmosomes are junctions that provide mechanical strength by anchoring cells together, while tight junctions create a barrier that prevents the passage of substances between cells. Unlike gap junctions, these junctions do not allow for the flow of nutrients or ions, highlighting their distinct functions in cellular architecture.