HEMIDESMOSOMES Meaning and
Definition
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Hemidesmosomes are specialized cell junctions found in epithelial tissues that anchor the cells to the underlying basement membrane. They act as half-desmosomes, hence the name "hemi" (meaning half). Hemidesmosomes play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of epithelial tissues by providing strong adhesion between the cells and the extracellular matrix.
Structurally, hemidesmosomes consist of two main components: integrin proteins and intermediate filaments. The integrins are transmembrane proteins found on the cell surface, which connect the extracellular matrix to the intracellular cytoskeleton. In hemidesmosomes, integrins interact with laminins, fibronectins, and collagens present in the basement membrane. On the cytoplasmic side of the cell, the integrins are associated with intermediate filaments, particularly keratin filaments, forming a bridge-like structure.
The function of hemidesmosomes is to anchor the cells by firmly attaching them to the basement membrane. This attachment provides stability and resistance against mechanical stress, allowing epithelial tissues to withstand stretching, shearing forces, and other external pressures. Hemidesmosomes also contribute to proper cell signaling and tissue development.
Defects or abnormalities in hemidesmosome structure or function can lead to various diseases and disorders, including autoimmune blistering diseases and certain types of skin, oral, and ocular abnormalities. Hemidesmosomes have therefore gained significant attention in medical research, as understanding their role and dysfunction can provide insights into developing therapeutic strategies for these conditions.
Common Misspellings for HEMIDESMOSOMES
- gemidesmosomes
- bemidesmosomes
- nemidesmosomes
- jemidesmosomes
- uemidesmosomes
- yemidesmosomes
- hwmidesmosomes
- hsmidesmosomes
- hdmidesmosomes
- hrmidesmosomes
- h4midesmosomes
- h3midesmosomes
- henidesmosomes
- hekidesmosomes
- hejidesmosomes
- hemudesmosomes
- hemjdesmosomes
- hemkdesmosomes
- hemodesmosomes
- hem9desmosomes
Etymology of HEMIDESMOSOMES
The word "hemidesmosomes" is derived from the combination of "hemi-" and "desmosomes".
- "Hemi-" comes from the Greek word "hemi-" or "hēmi-" (ἡμι-), which means "half". It is commonly used as a prefix in various scientific and medical terms to indicate "half" or "partial".
- "Desmosomes" comes from the Greek word "desmos" (δέσμος), which means "bond" or "fastening". In biology, desmosomes refer to specialized cell structures involved in cell adhesion, forming strong connections between cells.
When combined, "hemidesmosomes" literally means "half-desmosomes" as they resemble only a partial or half-desmosome structure.
