COMMUNICATING JUNCTION Meaning and
Definition
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A communicating junction, also known as a gap junction, is a specialized intercellular connection that allows direct electrical and chemical communication between adjacent cells. It functions as a direct channel, joining the cytoplasm of two cells, enabling the transfer of small molecules and ions, as well as electrical signals directly from one cell to another.
These junctions are made up of protein structures called connexons, which form pore-like channels that traverse the cell membranes of the adjoining cells. Each connexon is made up of six connexin proteins arranged in a circular pattern. When the connexons from two neighboring cells come together, they form a continuous channel known as a gap junction. This allows for the direct flow of small molecules, such as ions, sugars, and signaling molecules, between the cells.
The main function of communicating junctions is to coordinate the activities of adjacent cells in multicellular organisms. They are crucial for the synchronization of electrical signals in cardiac muscle cells, allowing them to contract in a coordinated manner. They also play a role in the transmission of nerve impulses between neurons, enabling rapid signaling and synchronization of activity. Additionally, communicating junctions are involved in the diffusion of metabolic substrates and waste products between cells, helping to maintain cellular homeostasis.
In summary, a communicating junction is a specialized intercellular connection that facilitates direct communication between adjacent cells through the transfer of small molecules, ions, and electrical signals. These junctions are vital for coordinating cellular activities and maintaining cellular homeostasis in multicellular organisms.
Common Misspellings for COMMUNICATING JUNCTION
- xommunicating junction
- vommunicating junction
- fommunicating junction
- dommunicating junction
- cimmunicating junction
- ckmmunicating junction
- clmmunicating junction
- cpmmunicating junction
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- c9mmunicating junction
- conmunicating junction
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- cojmunicating junction
- comnunicating junction
- comkunicating junction
- comjunicating junction
- commynicating junction
- commhnicating junction
- commjnicating junction
- comminicating junction
Etymology of COMMUNICATING JUNCTION
The etymology of the word "communicating junction" can be broken down as follows:
1. Communicate: The word "communicate" comes from the Latin word "communicare", which means "to share" or "to impart information". It is derived from the Latin word "communis", meaning "common".
2. Junction: The word "junction" comes from the Latin word "iunctio", which means "joining" or "uniting". It is derived from the Latin word "iungere", meaning "to join" or "to bind together".
Therefore, when combined, the term "communicating junction" refers to a point of connection or union that enables the sharing or transfer of information between different entities or systems. In the context of biology, a communicating junction refers to a specialized structure that allows cells or tissues to exchange substances, electrical impulses, or signals with one another.
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