Certain types of cell junctions render epithelial cells impermeable. Which of the following types of cell junction is responsible for impermeability, therefore requiring transcellular movement of substances from the apical surface to the basolateral surface of the epithelium?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tight junctions (zonula occludens) create a seal between adjacent epithelial cells, preventing the passage of substances through the space between cells, thus making the epithelium impermeable and requiring substances to move transcellularly. Tight junctions, or zonula occludens, are the closely associated areas of 2 cells whose membranes join together forming a virtually impermeable barrier to fluid.

Certain Types of Cell Junctions Render Epithelial Cells Impermeable