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:

• cell junction
• desmosome
• anchoring junction
• hemidesmosome

Reference(s):

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