Final answer:
Desmosomes are intercellular junctions in animal cells, containing cadherins that link to intermediate filaments, creating strong bonds between epithelial cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
Desmosomes are structures found only in animal cells, and they function like spot welds between adjacent epithelial cells. These cellular components contain proteins named cadherins within the plasma membrane that link to intermediate filaments to form a very strong bond between cells.
The cadherins span across the narrow gap between cells, enabling the cells to stay connected in sheet-like formations. This is particularly important in organs and tissues that undergo stretching, such as skin, heart, and muscles. Desmosomes thus play a critical role in maintaining tissue structure and integrity.