Sticky Basics (Adhesion)
Define Adhesion in your own words.
Attraction between different types of molecules.
Name ONE of the three adhesion proteins mentioned.
Cadherins, Integrins, or Selectins.
What does ECM stand for?
Extracellular Matrix.
What is the name of the current cell membrane model?
Fluid Mosaic Model.
Why is adhesion vital for human tissues?
It keeps tissues together and prevents them from falling apart.
What is the difference between Adhesion and Cohesion?
Adhesion: different molecules; Cohesion: same molecules (water-water).
What is the specific function of Cadherins?
Strong cell-to-cell bonds.
What is the main structural protein/fibre in the ECM?
Collagen.
What are the primary building blocks of the membrane?
Phospholipids (and proteins).
Name the "glue" protein that links cells to collagen.
Fibronectin.
Which chemical bond is responsible for adhesion?
Hydrogen bonds.
Which protein mediates the junction between the cell and the matrix?
Integrins.
Name one function of the Extracellular Matrix.
Structural support, regulating cell communication, or protecting cells.
What is the role of the Intracellular domain in adhesion?
It anchors the adhesion protein to the cytoskeleton.
How does adhesion assist the heart's workload?
By "wetting" vessel walls, helping blood move through micro-capillaries more easily.
Adhesion occurs between water and what type of surfaces?
Polar / Hydrophilic surfaces.
Which proteins are responsible for transient (temporary) adhesions?
Selectins.
What specific tissue is primarily supported by adhesion units?
Epithelium / Epithelial tissue.
Explain the "Mosaic" part of the Fluid Mosaic Model.
It refers to the pattern of different proteins embedded in the lipid bilayer.
What would happen to the lungs without surfactants?
They would collapse due to excessive surface tension/adhesion.
Explain how capillary action works using the term "Adhesion."
Adhesion to the walls of a narrow tube allows water to rise against gravity.
Where (which domain) do adhesion proteins link to the cytoskeleton?
The intracellular domain (inside the cell).
How does the ECM modulate tissue development?
By regulating/modulating advert lines and physiological development.
How does adhesion help organize elements of the cytoskeleton?
Adhesion proteins act as anchors that help organize/modulate cytoskeleton fibers.
Explain the role of adhesion in the alveoli.
It creates surface tension that helps maintain the structure (balanced by surfactant).