junctional complex (cells)
Last reviewed 01/2018
The junctional complex is an intercellular attachment structure. It is usually found around the apical membrane of an epithelial or endothelial cell. It limits the passive movement of fluids across the membrane by diffusion. It consists of:
- zonula occludens
- macula adherens
- zonula adherens
The zonula adherens sits inferior to the zonula occludens in the apical membrane and forms a complete ring around the cell in this region. It contains actin filaments in a localised matrix. It may provide support to the zonula occludens.