Desmosomes

Definition

Desmosomes are specialized intercellular junctions that provide strong adhesion between cells, particularly in tissues subjected to mechanical stress. They are composed of cadherin proteins and anchor to intermediate filaments within the cell.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Desmosomes are crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of tissues such as skin and heart muscle.
2. They use cadherin proteins (desmogleins and desmocollins) to connect adjacent cells.
3. The intracellular attachment plaque of desmosomes is composed of plakoglobin, plakophilin, and desmoplakin.
4. Desmosomal dysfunction can lead to diseases like pemphigus vulgaris, which results in skin blistering.
5. Desmosomes link to intermediate filaments made of keratin in epithelial cells and desmin in cardiac muscle cells.

Review Questions

• What types of proteins are primarily involved in the formation of desmosomes?
• Why are desmosomes important for tissues that experience mechanical stress?
• How do desmosomal dysfunctions manifest clinically?

Related terms

Tight Junctions: Cell junctions that create a seal preventing the passage of molecules between cells.

Gap Junctions: Intercellular channels that allow for direct communication between cells by permitting the passage of ions and small molecules.

Intermediate Filaments: Cytoskeletal components that provide mechanical support for the plasma membrane where it comes into contact with other cells or with the extracellular matrix.