Cell junction

A specialized structure that connects a cell to another cell or to the extracellular matrix. Cell junctions provide adhesion, communication, or barriers between tissues and compartments.

Tight junction: A cell junction that seals the space between neighboring cells and regulates passage through epithelial layers. It creates the barrier function of junctions between adjacent cells.
Cadherin: A calcium-dependent cell-adhesion protein that commonly binds cadherins on neighboring cells. Cadherins provide the trans-cell adhesion in adherens junctions and desmosomes.
Epithelial barrier: A selectively permeable boundary formed by epithelial cells that controls exchange between body compartments and the environment. Tight junctions help determine what crosses epithelial sheets between cells.
Cell adhesion molecule: A cell-surface protein that mediates attachment between cells or between cells and extracellular matrix. Cell junctions organize adhesion molecules into specialized structures.
Adherens junction: A cell junction that links neighboring cells through cadherins connected to the actin cytoskeleton. It provides actin-linked adhesion between neighboring cells.
Integrin: A transmembrane receptor that binds extracellular matrix proteins and connects them to intracellular signaling and cytoskeletal systems. Integrins mediate cell–matrix attachment at focal adhesions and hemidesmosomes.
Blood–brain barrier: A selective interface between blood and brain tissue formed by specialized endothelial cells and supporting cells. Endothelial tight junctions restrict movement from blood into the brain.
Extracellular matrix: A network of secreted molecules surrounding cells that provides structural support and biochemical signals. Cell–matrix junctions anchor cells to this external network.
Desmosome: A cell junction that connects intermediate filaments between neighboring cells to resist mechanical stress. It anchors neighboring cells to a tensile-strength network.
Connexin: A membrane protein that assembles into connexons, which pair across adjacent cells to form gap-junction channels. Connexins form the channels that make gap-junction communication possible.

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