TIGHT JUNCTION Meaning and
Definition
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A tight junction is a specialized type of intercellular junction that exists between neighboring cells in animal tissues. It is a belt-like structure formed by the fusion of outermost cell membranes of adjacent cells, creating a tightly sealed barrier that restricts the movement of molecules across the intercellular space.
This junction plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and selectively permeable nature of various tissues and organs, including the epithelial linings of the digestive tract, respiratory system, and blood vessels. Its primary function is to prevent the leakage of molecules or ions between cells, thus controlling the passage of substances through the epithelial layer.
The tight junction forms a continuous, impermeable seal due to the presence of transmembrane proteins called claudins and occludins. These proteins interact with each other and link the adjacent cells, effectively sealing the space between them. By doing so, tight junctions promote cellular polarization, regulating the movement of substances across epithelial surfaces in a directional manner.
Besides their role in maintaining barrier function, tight junctions also serve as signaling platforms, facilitating the transmission of signals from one cell to another. They are involved in cell-to-cell communication and influence various physiological processes, such as cell differentiation, tissue development, and immune response.
In summary, tight junctions are crucial structures that provide a physical barrier and regulate the permeability of epithelial tissues. They play a vital role in maintaining tissue integrity, proper functioning of organs, and signal transduction between neighboring cells.
Common Misspellings for TIGHT JUNCTION
- right junction
- fight junction
- gight junction
- yight junction
- 6ight junction
- 5ight junction
- tught junction
- tjght junction
- tkght junction
- toght junction
- t9ght junction
- t8ght junction
- tifht junction
- tivht junction
- tibht junction
- tihht junction
- tiyht junction
- titht junction
- tiggt junction
- tigbt junction
Etymology of TIGHT JUNCTION
The word "tight junction" is composed of two parts: "tight" and "junction".
The term "junction" comes from the Latin word "junctio", meaning "a joining or connecting", which itself is derived from the verb "jungere", meaning "to join". It refers to a point of contact or connection between two or more things.
The word "tight" in this context describes the characteristic of the junction being closely sealed or tightly knit. It emphasizes the narrowness or tightness of this particular type of cell-to-cell junction.
Therefore, the etymology of "tight junction" can be traced back to Latin, with "junction" indicating a connection and "tight" highlighting the close and sealed nature of this particular type of cellular junction.
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