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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.
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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
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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 7 Feb. 2025.
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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