OCCLUDING JUNCTION Meaning and
Definition
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Occluding junction, also known as tight junction, is a specialized structure found in animal tissues that plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and barrier function of the epithelial and endothelial cell layers. It is a type of cell junction that tightly connects adjacent cells together, forming a seal that prevents the passage of molecules between them.
Occluding junctions typically consist of a complex arrangement of integral membrane proteins called claudins and occludins, which interact with each other to close the space between cells. These proteins create a barrier by forming a continuous belt-like structure around the cell, blocking the movement of substances through the gaps between cells.
The main function of occluding junctions is to regulate the paracellular pathway, which refers to the movement of molecules between cells without passing through the cell membrane. By restricting the passage of ions, water, and solutes, occluding junctions help maintain the selective permeability of the epithelial and endothelial layers, ensuring that essential nutrients are absorbed and toxins or harmful substances are prevented from entering the body or organs.
Occluding junctions are commonly found in tissues and organs that require a tight barrier, such as the gastrointestinal tract, blood-brain barrier, and renal tubules. Dysfunction or disruption of occluding junctions can lead to various diseases and conditions, including leaky gut syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain types of cancer.
Common Misspellings for OCCLUDING JUNCTION
- iccluding junction
- kccluding junction
- lccluding junction
- pccluding junction
- 0ccluding junction
- 9ccluding junction
- oxcluding junction
- ovcluding junction
- ofcluding junction
- odcluding junction
- ocxluding junction
- ocvluding junction
- ocfluding junction
- ocdluding junction
- occkuding junction
- occpuding junction
- occouding junction
- occlyding junction
- occlhding junction
- occljding junction
Etymology of OCCLUDING JUNCTION
The term "Occluding Junction" in biology refers to a type of cell-to-cell junction that forms a tight seal, preventing the passage of molecules between adjacent cells. The word "occlude" originates from the Latin word "occludere" which means "to close up" or "to shut off". The Latin word is a combination of "ob" meaning "against" and "claudere" meaning "to close". Thus, an "occluding junction" literally means a junction that closes off or seals cells together.
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