The Junction Type That Lets Neighboring Cells Exchange Small Molecules

Question

The junction type that lets neighboring cells exchange small molecules is the
A) desmosome.
B) hemidesmosome.
C) gap junction.
D) tight junction.
E) zonula adherens.

Accepted Answer

Gap junctions are formed by connexin proteins and allow the exchange of small molecules such as ions and second messengers between cells. Desmosomes anchor cells together, hemidesmosomes anchor cells to the extracellular matrix, tight junctions create a barrier to the passage of molecules, and zonula adherens form belt-like junctions that help maintain cell shape and polarity.