Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is the primary function of desmosomes in cells?

1. Energy production

2. Maintaining cohesion with adjacent cells

3. Protein synthesis

4. Cellular respiration

The correct answer is: Maintaining cohesion with adjacent cells

Desmosomes are specialized structures found in the cell membranes that play a crucial role in maintaining cohesion and structural integrity between adjacent cells. They function as adhesive spots that connect the cytoskeletons of neighboring cells, which is particularly important in tissues that undergo significant mechanical stress, such as skin and cardiac muscle. This adhesion helps ensure that the cells do not pull apart during activities such as stretching or contracting. Understanding the role of desmosomes highlights their importance in providing stability and support within tissues, contributing to overall tissue integrity. In contrast, options related to energy production, protein synthesis, and cellular respiration pertain to functions performed by organelles and metabolic processes within cells, rather than the adhesion and structural support that desmosomes provide.