Question

In some cases, signals originating within one cell can diffuse directly to a neighboring cell through ________.

A) desmosomes
B) cadherins
C) gap junctions
D) tight junctions
E) occludins

Answer 1

Gap junctions are the cellular structures that allow signals to diffuse directly between neighboring cells. They are protein-lined pores that enable chemical communication by allowing the movement of ions and small molecules. This communication allows cells to coordinate their responses to signals.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gap junctions are the cellular structures that allow signals originating within one cell to diffuse directly to neighboring cells.

Gap junctions are protein-lined pores formed by connexin proteins that enable chemical communication between cells by allowing the direct movement of ions and small molecules. This rapid communication between cells allows them to coordinate their responses to signals and switch to different metabolic states simultaneously.

In plants, plasmodesmata perform similar functions to gap junctions in animal cells.