Dictionary > Belt desmosome

Belt desmosome

Definition
noun, plural: belt desmosomes
A type of desmosome characterized by a belt-like rivet between neighboring cells
Supplement
Desmosomes are anchoring junctions between neighboring cells. A similar anchoring junction is the hemidesmosome. Both desmosomes and hemidesmosomes use intermediate filaments as their cytoskeletal anchor. However, the transmembrane linker of desmosomes is cadherin whereas that of hemidesmosomes is integrins. Furthermore, desmosomes link cell to another cell whereas hemidesmosomes link cell to the extracellular matrix. Desmosomes are typically found in simple and stratified squamous epithelium. They aid in resisting shearing forces. They are also found between myocytes where they bind these cells to one another. There are basically two types of desmosomes identified: (1) spot desmosomes and (2) belt desmosomes. Their difference lies on their appearance. The belt desmosomes are belt-like surrounding the cell completely, hence, the name. In contrast, spot desmosomes appear spot-like or circular in outline.
Another name for belt desmosome is zonula adherens. Together with macula adherens and zonula occludens, zonula adherens form junctional complex.1
Synonym:

  • zonula adherens
  • adherens junction
  • adhesive belt

Compare:

  • spot desmosome
  • See also:

    Reference(s):

    1 Quick review: the 5 main intercellular junctions. Retrieved from ://www.pathologystudent.com/?p=9739.


    You will also like...

    primitive arthropods
    Arthropods

    The arthropods were assumed to be the first taxon of species to possess jointed limbs and exoskeleton, exhibit more adva..

    Photosynthesis and respiration
    Plant Metabolism

    Plants are responsible for incredible feats of molecular transformation. Plant processes, such as photosynthesis, photop..

    kinesin motor proteins transporting molecules across microtubules
    Movement of Molecules Across Cell Membranes

    Molecules move within the cell or from one cell to another through different strategies. Transport may be in the form of..

    Carbohydrates, fats and proteins - dietary sources
    A Balanced Diet – Carbohydrates and Fat

    Apart from vitamins, the human body also requires high energy sources such as carbohydrates and fats. If you want an ove..

    Salmon jumping upstream in the river
    Lotic Communities & Animals

    A running water environment offers numerous microhabitats for many types of animals. Similar to plants, animals in lotic..

    Muscle
    Muscle

    Muscle cells are specialized to generate force and movement. Learn about the different types of muscle tissues in this t..

    Related Articles...

    No related articles found

    See all Related Topics