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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Cells have other options for exchanging molecules, most notably the structures called gap junctions and exosomes. —

Quanta Magazine, 23 Apr. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'gap junction.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of gap junction was in 1967

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Gap junction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gap%20junction. Accessed 28 Mar. 2023.

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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

gap-junctional

ˈgap-ˌjəŋk-shən-əl, -shnəl