Question

Which type of cell junction is most likely to be affected by pemphigus vulgaris, the autoimmune disease in the patient?

A) Tight junction
B) Desmosome
C) Gap junction

Answer 1

Pemphigus vulgaris primarily affects desmosomes, which are a type of cell junction that form strong spot welds between cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

The autoimmune disease pemphigus vulgaris primarily affects desmosomes, which are a type of cell junction that form strong spot welds between cells. Desmosomes use adhesion molecules called cadherins to connect the membranes of adjacent cells, and these connections are especially important in holding cells together. In pemphigus vulgaris, the immune system produces antibodies that mistakenly target and disrupt the desmosomes, leading to the detachment of skin cells and the formation of blisters.