Let’s consider cell-extracellular
matrix junctions; these include hemidesmosomes and
focal adhesions.
Hemidesmosomes- composed of
integrin protein complexes, these junctions are located at the
basal surface where they connect to the intermediate filament
network, forming spot-like welds that provide strong attachment
to the basement membrane.
Focal adhesions or contacts-
composed of integrin protein complexes, these spot-like
junctions (see image at the right) are located at the basal
surface where they connect the actin cytoskeleton to the
basement membrane and participate in cell migration and
signaling
Hemidesmosomes- composed of
integrin protein complexes, these junctions are located at the
basal surface where they connect to the intermediate filament
network, forming spot-like welds that provide strong attachment
to the basement membrane.