Final answer:
The cell junction not present in intestinal epithelial cells is B) hemidesmosomes, as they are mainly involved in anchoring cells to the extracellular matrix rather than providing connections between adjacent epithelial cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cell junction not found in intestinal epithelial cells is B) hemidesmosomes.Intestinal epithelial cells are known to contain several types of cell junctions which facilitate different forms of interaction between the cells. Tight junctions create an impermeable barrier that separates the apical and basal components of cells, blocking the passage of substances between cells. This is essential in maintaining the selective barrier function of epithelial tissues. Desmosomes are spot-weld-like structures offering mechanical stability and resisting stress by anchoring intermediate filaments across adjacent cells. Similarly, gap junctions serve as intercellular passageways that allow communication and the transfer of small molecules between cells, playing a crucial role in coordination of functions.
However, hemidesmosomes are not typically a feature of intestinal epithelial cells; instead, they are involved in anchoring cells to the extracellular matrix such as the basal lamina, but not in interactions between adjacent epithelial cells. Thus, hemidesmosomes are the correct answer as they are principally found where epithelial cells meet the basement membrane, not between neighboring epithelial cells.