zonula
- noun
- /ˈzoʊnələ/
- Specialized
- The zonula occludens plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of epithelial layers.
Examples
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Under the microscope, a distinct zonula appeared at the junction between the two cells.
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Researchers studied the proteins associated with the zonula in order to understand its function.
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The zonula is important.
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What is a zonula?
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Researchers studied the proteins associated with the zonula to understand its role in cellular adhesion.
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The zonula occludens is critical for preventing the passage of substances between epithelial cells.
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Under the microscope, a clear zonula can be seen at the junction where cells meet, ensuring tissue stability.
Synonyms
A strip of tissue that connects or supports body parts
A ring of tissue that goes around a body part
A small band of tissue that holds or supports body parts
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word zonula comes from the Latin zona meaning 'belt' or 'zone' and the small ending -ula meaning 'little', so it literally says 'little belt'. It is like the English word zone, and that's why scientists use zonula for a thin, beltlike band in tissues where cells meet.