Adjacent epithelial cells are held together by means of
(a) Liposomes
(b) Glyoxisomes
(c) Desmosomes
(d) Microsomes

Options

A. Liposomes
B. Glyoxisomes
C. Desmosomes
D. Microsomes

Answer

To solve the question "Adjacent epithelial cells are held together by means of:", we need to analyze the options provided and identify the correct structure responsible for holding epithelial cells together.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about the structures that hold adjacent epithelial cells together. Epithelial cells are tightly packed and need specialized structures for adhesion.

2. **Reviewing the Options**:
- **(a) Liposomes**: These are spherical vesicles that are not involved in cell adhesion. They are primarily used in drug delivery and cellular transport.
- **(b) Glyoxisomes**: These are organelles found in plants that are involved in the conversion of stored fats into carbohydrates. They do not play a role in cell adhesion.
- **(c) Desmosomes**: These are specialized structures that provide strong adhesion between adjacent cells, particularly in epithelial tissues. They are crucial for maintaining the integrity of tissues under mechanical stress.
- **(d) Microsomes**: These are fragments of the endoplasmic reticulum and are not involved in cell adhesion.

3. **Identifying the Correct Answer**: Based on the analysis, desmosomes (option c) are the correct structures that hold adjacent epithelial cells together. They are also known as macula adherens and are essential for cell-to-cell adhesion, especially in tissues that experience mechanical stress.

4. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question is **(c) Desmosomes**.