Animal Cell Characteristics
Between animal cells is a matrix or meshwork that
holds animal cells and tissues together and influences how the
cells will divide and metabolize.
Cartilage consists of cells and proteins (collagen and
elastin) scattered in a ground substance which is modified
polysaccharides.
Cell-to-Cell Junctions: At tissue surfaces, cells link
together to form a barrier between the interior and exterior. Three
types of cell-to-cell junctions are common:
- Tight junctions which link cells of epithelial tissues to form
seals.
- Adhering junctions which are like spot welds in tissues
subject to stretching.
- Gap junctions which link the cytoplasm of adjacent cells.
They form communication channels.
This animation (Audio - Important) describes
cell to cell junctions.
This animation (Audio - Important) compares the structure of
animal and plant cells.
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