Intestinal Epithelial Cell Adhesion Sites

Intestinal epithelial cell adhesion sites are specialized intercellular junctions that maintain the integrity, barrier function, and homeostasis of the intestinal epithelium. These adhesion sites are composed of several distinct molecular complexes located along the lateral membrane between adjacent epithelial cells. The primary types include tight junctions (TJs), adherens junctions (AJs), and desmosomes (DMs). These junctions are crucial for maintaining the epithelial barrier against pathogens and toxins, while also allowing for selective nutrient absorption. Disruption or mutation in these molecules can lead to increased permeability ('leaky gut'), inflammation, autoimmune diseases, cancer progression, or developmental defects.