EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Gap junctions are specialized intercellular connections between a multitude of animal cell-types. They directly connect the cytoplasm of two cells, which allows various molecules, ions and electrical impulses to directly pass through a regulated gate between cells.

Detailed explanation-2: -Gap junctions are aggregates of intercellular channels that permit direct cell–cell transfer of ions and small molecules. Initially described as low-resistance ion pathways joining excitable cells (nerve and muscle), gap junctions are found joining virtually all cells in solid tissues.

Detailed explanation-3: -Gap junctions are a type of cell junction in which adjacent cells are connected through protein channels. These channels connect the cytoplasm of each cell and allow molecules, ions, and electrical signals to pass between them.

Detailed explanation-4: -Gap junctions are communicating junctions composed of clusters of connexons that allow molecules smaller than about 1000 daltons to pass directly from the inside of one cell to the inside of the next.

Detailed explanation-5: -Gap junctions allow the exchange of ions, second messengers, and small metabolites between adjacent cells and are formed by two unrelated protein families, the pannexins and connexins. Mutations in connexin genes cause a variety of genetic disorders, implicating a critical role in tissue homeostasis.