Questions: Question 24 0 / 1 pts Which of the following is a junction between an cell and an extracellular matrix (there may be more than one answer)? adherens junction hemidesmosome focal adhesion desmosome gap junction tight junction

The correct answers are: hemidesmosome and focal adhesion.

Explanation for each option:

1. Adherens junction: Incorrect. Adherens junctions are primarily involved in cell-to-cell adhesion, not between a cell and the extracellular matrix.

2. Hemidesmosome: Correct. Hemidesmosomes are structures that anchor cells to the extracellular matrix, particularly in epithelial cells, by connecting the intermediate filaments inside the cell to the extracellular matrix.

3. Focal adhesion: Correct. Focal adhesions are complexes that connect the actin cytoskeleton of a cell to the extracellular matrix, playing a crucial role in cell signaling and movement.

4. Desmosome: Incorrect. Desmosomes are specialized for cell-to-cell adhesion, providing mechanical strength to tissues by linking the intermediate filaments of adjacent cells.

5. Gap junction: Incorrect. Gap junctions are involved in cell-to-cell communication, allowing the passage of ions and small molecules between adjacent cells.

6. Tight junction: Incorrect. Tight junctions are involved in creating a seal between adjacent cells to prevent the passage of molecules and ions through the space between cells.

In summary, hemidesmosomes and focal adhesions are the junctions that connect a cell to the extracellular matrix.