In: Biology
18. Define gap junction and draw a diagram of a gap junction, labeling connexons, etc. Also describe the relationship of an electrical synapse to the gap junction structure.
Answer
Gap junctions: these are communicating junction between cells trough plasma membrane which connect cells electrically and metabolically. These are open channel which allow the passage of ions and small molecules. These junctions make cells electrical excitable by allowing passage of Ca+ ions, cAMP etc.
Gap junctions are constructed of transmembrane proteins called connexins. Six connexions assemble to form a cylindrical structure known as connexon.