Write a short note on specialized junctions of epithelia.

Explanation

All cells of epithelia are held together with little intercellular material forming specialized junctions. These provide structural and functional links between the cells. Three types of cell junctions, tight, adhering and gap junctions are found in animal tissues. Tight junctions help to stop substances from leaking across the tissue. Adhering junctions cement the neighbouring cells together. Gap junctions facilitate the transfer of ions, small and big molecules between the adjoining cells by connecting the cytoplasm of these cells.