Various types of intercellular connections exist between epithelial cells.  Two types that promote adherence between cells are the tight junctions and desmosomes.  Tight junctions consist of fused membranes typically located nearer the apical surface.  Desmosomes,  on the other hand, are more prevalent toward the basal surfaces and are more complex inter-cellular junctions, consisting of intercellular cement and supportive intermediate filaments.

Copyright ©1999 The McGraw-Hill Companies. All rights reserved.