A defect in which of the following intercellular junctions would allow partially digested material to leak passively between the cells of the small intestine into the abdominal cavity?
A) desmosomes
B) gap junctions
C) plasmodesmata
D) tight junctions

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tight junctions are the intercellular junctions that create a tight seal between adjacent cells, preventing the leakage of material between them. A defect in tight junctions could allow partially digested material to leak passively from the small intestine into the abdominal cavity. Desmosomes, gap junctions, and plasmodesmata are not involved in the barrier function of the small intestine.

A Defect in Which of the Following Intercellular Junctions Would