Question

Collagens interact directly with which of the following types of junctions?

A) gap junctions
B) tight junctions
C) hemidesmosomes
D) desmosomes
E) None of the above are correct.

Answer 1

Collagens directly interact with hemidesmosomes, which link cells to the extracellular matrix, providing structural stability (Option C).

Step-by-step explanation:

Collagens interact directly with hemidesmosomes. Hemidesmosomes are specialized structures that link cells to the extracellular matrix, such as the basal lamina. Unlike desmosomes, which use cadherins for cell-cell adhesion, hemidesmosomes utilize integrins for cell-ECM adhesion. Collagen fibers in the extracellular matrix can bind to these integrins, anchoring the cells to the matrix and providing structural stability.

Thus, collagens interact directly with hemidesmosomes types of cell junctions. Hemidesmosomes link cells to the extracellular matrix, which corresponds to Option C.