Nexus

The nexus, or gap junction, is an important element in human anatomy and physiology. It is a junction between two cells through which small water-soluble molecules pass.

A nexus forms between the plasmalemma (outer membrane) of neighboring cells. The width of the space between the plasma membranes is 2-4 nanometers. Both plasma membranes are interconnected by hexagonal connexons consisting of six protein subunits.

Gap junctions are important for many body functions, especially for cells with significant electrical activity. For example, gap junctions play a key role in transmitting electrical impulses to the heart.

However, despite their importance, gap junctions can also be vulnerable in some diseases. For example, in Down syndrome, when there are three chromosomes rather than the usual two, gap junctions can be disrupted, which can lead to various health problems.

In general, the study of gap junctions and their role in the human body is an important area in modern science and medicine.

The nexus is a gap junction that connects cells and allows the exchange of molecules between them. This is one of the most common types of intercellular contacts in humans and animals.

In nexuses, there is a small space between the plasmalemmas (outer cell membranes) of neighboring cells, about 2-4 nanometers wide. Both plasma membranes are connected to each other through connexons - protein structures that form a hexagonal structure, each about 9 nanometers in size. Each connecton consists of six protein subunits that ensure reliable contact between cells.

Nexuses play an important role in the transmission of signals, hormones and other molecules between cells, as well as in the regulation of the electrical activity of the heart and other cells with pronounced electrical activity. They are also involved in the formation of intercellular communication and coordination of cellular functions.

Thus, nexuses are key elements in the functioning of many cells in the body and play an important role in many physiological processes.

The nexus is a gap junction that connects neighboring cells and allows water-soluble small molecules to pass through it. Such contacts are present in many human and animal cells, including cardiomyocytes.

A space about 2-4 nanometers wide passes through the gap junction. It consists of two plasmalemmas connected by a connexon, a hollow hexagonal protein structure approximately 9 nanometers in size, consisting of six protein subunits.

Gap junctions play a key role in processes related to the electrical activity of cells, such as signal transduction and regulation of cellular functions. For example, in cardiomyocytes, gap junctions provide the transmission of electrical impulses necessary for contraction of the heart muscle.

Thus, gap junctions are an important element of cell-cell communication, and their function and structure are currently being studied in biological and medical research.