Definition

A part of a cell that helps stick cells together to form tissues.

Example

Desmosomes are important for maintaining the structure of epithelial tissues.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a desmosome?

Yeah, I think it's something that helps cells stick together, right?

Exactly! It's like a glue that holds tissue together.

That's pretty cool! I didn't know there were such structures in our bodies.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Desmosome → It is formed from 'desmo-' (from Greek 'desmos', meaning bond or ligament) and '-some' (from Greek 'soma', meaning body). The word 'desmosome' refers to a structure that forms a bond between cells, acting like a body that holds them together.

Memory Tip

Think of 'desmos' meaning bond, and 'soma' meaning body — a desmosome is a body that creates a bond between cells.

Visually Confused Words