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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly describes tight junctions in animal cells?
A
Tight junctions are found only in plant cells.
B
Tight junctions form a seal that prevents the passage of molecules between adjacent cells.
C
Tight junctions anchor cells to the extracellular matrix.
D
Tight junctions allow ions and small molecules to pass directly between neighboring cells.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the function of tight junctions in animal cells. Tight junctions are specialized structures that create a seal between adjacent cells, preventing the passage of molecules and ions through the space between cells.
Step 2: Eliminate incorrect options. Tight junctions are not found in plant cells, so the statement 'Tight junctions are found only in plant cells' is incorrect.
Step 3: Analyze the option 'Tight junctions anchor cells to the extracellular matrix.' Tight junctions do not anchor cells to the extracellular matrix; this is the role of other structures like desmosomes or hemidesmosomes.
Step 4: Evaluate the option 'Tight junctions allow ions and small molecules to pass directly between neighboring cells.' This describes gap junctions, not tight junctions, so this option is also incorrect.
Step 5: Confirm the correct statement. The option 'Tight junctions form a seal that prevents the passage of molecules between adjacent cells' accurately describes the function of tight junctions in animal cells.