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

4. Tissues & Histology

Characteristics of Epithelial Tissue

Anatomy & Physiology

4. Tissues & Histology

Characteristics of Epithelial Tissue

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1:18 minutes

Problem 5

Textbook Question

The most abundant connections between cells in the superficial layers of the skin are
(a) Connexons
(b) Gap junctions
(c) Desmosomes
(d) Tight junctions

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the function of each type of cell connection mentioned in the problem: connexons, gap junctions, desmosomes, and tight junctions. Each serves a specific role in cellular communication or adhesion.

Recall that the superficial layers of the skin, particularly the epidermis, are subject to mechanical stress and require strong intercellular connections to maintain structural integrity.

Identify that desmosomes are specialized structures that provide strong adhesion between cells, particularly in tissues exposed to mechanical stress, such as the skin.

Compare desmosomes to the other options: connexons and gap junctions are involved in communication between cells, while tight junctions create impermeable barriers but do not provide the same mechanical strength as desmosomes.

Conclude that desmosomes are the most abundant connections between cells in the superficial layers of the skin due to their role in maintaining structural integrity under stress.

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Key Concepts

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

Gap Junctions

Gap junctions are specialized intercellular connections that allow direct communication between adjacent cells. They consist of connexons, which are formed by the alignment of two hemichannels from neighboring cells. These junctions enable the transfer of ions and small molecules, facilitating coordinated cellular responses, particularly in tissues like the skin where rapid communication is essential.

Desmosomes

Desmosomes are adhesive junctions that provide mechanical strength to tissues by anchoring adjacent cells together. They are composed of protein complexes that link the cytoskeletons of neighboring cells, helping to resist shear forces. In the skin, desmosomes are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the epidermis, especially in areas subjected to stretching and abrasion.

Tight Junctions

Tight junctions are connections between epithelial cells that create a barrier to prevent the passage of substances between the cells. They are formed by proteins that seal the space between adjacent cells, maintaining the distinct environments on either side of the epithelium. In the skin, tight junctions play a role in regulating permeability and protecting underlying tissues from external pathogens.