Resources

List by Alphabet: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Adhering junction

Adhering junctions, also known as cell-cell junctions or cell-cell adhesions, are specialized structures that enable cells to adhere and interact with each other in multicellular organisms. These junctions are critical in maintaining tissue integrity, cell communication, and tissue organization.

There are several types of adhering junctions, including:

Desmosomes: Desmosomes are strong and stable junctions found in tissues subjected to mechanical stress, such as the skin and cardiac muscle. They consist of proteins called cadherins that connect neighboring cells and are anchored to the cytoskeleton via linker proteins. Desmosomes provide strong adhesion and resistance to shearing forces.

Adherens Junctions: Adherens junctions are found in many types of tissues and comprise cadherins that link adjacent cells. The most common cadherin in adherens junctions is E-cadherin. Adherens junctions help maintain tissue integrity by connecting cells and transmitting mechanical forces across tissues.

Hemidesmosomes: Hemidesmosomes are specialized junctions that anchor epithelial cells to the underlying extracellular matrix. They contain integrins and intermediate filaments that connect the cell's cytoskeleton to the basement membrane, providing stability and anchorage.

Adhesion Belts: Adhesion belts, also known as zonula adherens or tight junctions, encircle cells and form a continuous belt-like structure. They are composed of proteins called occludins and claudins that regulate the permeability of the cell layer and contribute to cell adhesion.

Adhering junctions are crucial for the development, maintenance, and function of tissues and organs. They play roles in embryonic development, cell sorting, tissue morphogenesis, wound healing, and the maintenance of epithelial barriers.

Defects or dysfunction in adhering junctions can lead to various diseases and conditions, including epithelial disorders, cancer metastasis, and certain genetic disorders.

Related Biology Tools

  • GenSmart™ Codon Optimization

    GenSmart Optimization is a free online tool for performing codon optimization to improve gene expression. GenScript's patented algorithms are integrated into the tool to optimize the computing capability of high-performance sequence generation.

    Learn More

  • DNA Construct Design Tool

    GenSmart™ Design is a free online DNA construct design tool developed by GenScript. GenSmart™ Design has two design modules, the Create Construct module for individual plasmid design and the Create Library module for DNA library design.

    Learn More

  • Codon Frequency Tables

    This online tool shows commonly used genetic codon frequency table in expression host organisms including Escherichia coli and other common host organisms.

    Learn More

Service and Products

Gene Synthesis

Offer gene synthesis of 100% sequence guarantee, free codon optimization, DNA synthesis in as fast as 4 days.

ORF cDNA Clones and Custom Clones

Largest commercial ORF clones database, 70,000 next-day shipping ORF clones.

Plasmid DNA Preparation

High quality plasmids supported by fully-automated platform, 100% full insert sequence accuracy guaranteed.

Express Cloning & Subcloning

$49 and 2 day turnaround, choose from over 150 IP FREE vectors.

Mutation and Library Services

Mutagenesis Portfolio offers several mutation and library services to meet various customers’ needs.

Oligo Synthesis

Bridge the gap between chemically synthesized oligos and bological applications.

If you know of any terms that have been omitted from this glossary that you feel would be useful to include, please send detail to the Editorial Office at GenScript: [email protected]

If your term is adopted, we will send 1,000 EzCoupon points to your GenScript account.