Related Experiment Videos
Interplay between tight junctions & adherens junctions
Hannah K Campbell1, Jessica L Maiers1, Kris A DeMali1
1Department of Biochemistry, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
Experimental Cell Research
|April 5, 2017
Summary
Cell-cell adhesion involves adherens junctions and tight junctions. These crucial tissue components are physically and signaling-ly interconnected, challenging previous discrete views.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Cell-cell adhesions are vital for tissue development and maintenance.
- Adherens junctions (AJs) and tight junctions (TJs) mediate cell contact and regulate paracellular transport and cell polarity.
- Previously considered distinct, AJs and TJs exhibit significant interdependency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the individual components of adherens junctions and tight junctions.
- To elucidate the coupling and interdependency between adherens junctions and tight junctions.
- To emphasize the signaling links and physical interactions connecting these junctional complexes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of cell junction research.
- Analysis of molecular components of adherens and tight junctions.
- Examination of protein interactions and signaling pathways linking AJs and TJs.
Main Results:
- Adherens junctions utilize nectins and cadherins for cell adhesion.
- Tight junctions control ion/molecule passage and establish cell polarity.
- Zonula occludens proteins and signaling molecules physically and functionally link AJs and TJs.
Conclusions:
- Adherens junctions and tight junctions are not discrete but highly interdependent.
- Physical linkages via zonula occludens proteins and signaling pathways integrate these junctions.
- Understanding this crosstalk is crucial for comprehending tissue integrity and cell polarity.