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gap junction
noun
: an area of contact between adjacent cells characterized by modification of the plasma membranes for intercellular communication or transfer of low molecular-weight substances
Examples of gap junction in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
That's how electrical signals are transmitted through heart muscle to induce regular contractions: the pulses travel from cell to cell via connections called gap junctions.
—Philip Ball, Scientific American, 18 Apr. 2023
Cells have other options for exchanging molecules, most notably the structures called gap junctions and exosomes.
—Quanta Magazine, 23 Apr. 2018
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'gap junction.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1967, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near gap junction
Cite this Entry
“Gap junction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gap%20junction. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.
Medical Definition
gap junction
noun
: an area of contact between adjacent cells characterized by modification of the plasma membranes for intercellular communication or transfer of low molecular-weight substances
More from Merriam-Webster on gap junction
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about gap junction
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