Gap Junction EM
Gap Junction EM

Gap Junction EM

Gap junctions can be viewed as broad areas with closely opposed plasma membranes. Note how the outer leaflets of plasma membranes of neighboring cells appear to become fused. As you move away from the gap junction, the distance between plasma membranes increases. Explain the microscopic components of a gap junction. In what tissues would you expect to find large numbers of gap junctions?
Answer: Six connexin proteins make up a connexon. Two connexons from different cells join to form a single channel. Multiple channels make up a gap junction. Gap junctions are found in muscle (especially cardiac muscle) and any other tissues in which coordinated action of adjacent cells is important to function.